World Suicide Day: Ahead of World Suicide Day on September 10, 2023, we reached out to Dr Chandni Tugnait, M.D. (Alternative Medicines), psychotherapist and founder and director of Gateway of Healing. With the rising cases of suicides in India, it is crucial now more than ever to speak about mental health.
Whether it is work stress, tension in a relationship, pressure to top in an exam, fertility issues, or not being able to secure a job, several factors from your day-to-day life can contribute to mental health issues. You might not even notice a mental health problem unless it starts manifesting in physical form.
According to the World Health Organization, 7,03,000 die by suicide every year. It noted that 77% of incidents of suicides in the world were recorded in low and middle-income families in 2019.
Therefore, we spoke to the psychotherapist to answer frequently asked questions about depression and other mental health issues that can lead to suicide.
What Is The Link Between Depression And Suicide?
Dr Tugnait said that depression and suicide are closely interlinked. She added, “The risk of suicide has been estimated to be 5–8% for several mental disorders, including depression, alcoholism, and schizophrenia.”
The expert also said that the deep despair and hopelessness associated with major depressive disorder can lead a person to consider taking their life. “Approximately 60-80% of people who die by suicide suffer from major depression or another mood disorder,” she added.
What Are The Primary Reasons For Rising Suicide Cases Among Teenagers In India?
According to Dr Tugnait, extreme academic pressure to score the highest in ultra-competitive exams is one of the biggest reasons for rising suicide cases among teenagers in India.
According to many reports, 2023 has recorded the highest number of suicide cases among teenagers in India. Kota has topped this list with an average of three students dying by suicide in a month, stated a report in Hindustan Times.
Limited mental health awareness, poor access to counselling, and stigma around mental health have contributed to these numbers, added Dr Tugnait. Other additional factors include job scarcity, parental pressure, relationship conflicts, lack of coping skills, and the influence of social media.
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How Can Suicides Be Prevented?
Dr Tugnait said, “Suicide (Rising Suicide Cases Among Indian Homemakers) prevention requires comprehensive, collective efforts across society. Broadly promoting mental health awareness helps normalising seeking support and equips people to recognise warning signs.”
She also added quality mental healthcare and affordable access to experts can go a long way. “For at-risk persons, collaborative crisis plans outline actionable steps when suicidal thoughts occur, while follow-up care post-attempt improves outcomes,” she added.
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How To Help A Person Struggling With Suicidal Thoughts?
The expert emphasised the importance of compassionate listening and reinforcing reasons for living so that the person struggling with pessimistic thoughts can see a ray of hope at the end of the tunnel.
“Preventing suicide necessitates layered, evidence-based societal strategies combined with human connection. When collectively destigmatised, supported, and treated early, people struggling with suicidal thoughts can regain hope for a fruitful life ahead,” Dr Tugnait said.
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