World Suicide Prevention Day: Gujarat grapples with rising suicide rates

As the world observes ‘World Suicide Prevention Day’ on September 10, the rate of suicides in Gujarat remains a matter of concern. Over the past three years, a total of 25,841 people died by suicide in the state, averaging 25 suicides daily.

As per reports from the National Crime Records Bureau, in 2020, 8,050 people died by suicide, in 2021, 8,789, and in 2022, 9,002 people took their own lives in Gujarat.

The rate of suicides has risen by more than 10% from 2020 to 2022. In 2022, the highest number of suicides was due to family problems (2,285), illness (1,747), and marital issues (367). Among these, homemakers made the highest number, totalling 1,761.

A helpline for suicide prevention received more than 18,000 calls in 2019; 21,430 calls in 2020; 21,855 in 2021; 19,778 in 2022; and over 14,000 calls in 2023.

The role of social media in increasing suicide rates

Experts believe that factors such as burden of expectations from oneself and depression contribute to the increasing number of suicides. Despite having thousands of ‘friends’ on social media, people often lack true friends with whom they can share their feelings. Social media has also increased the incidence of comparisons and feelings of inadequacy, leading to people deciding to take the extreme step.

Experts advise reducing social media usage in daily life

Constantly comparing one's life with others leads to stress, which leads to depression eventually leading to self harm, stated the experts.

If you or anyone close to you requires help, reach out to 24x7 toll-free Mental Health Rehabilitation Helpline KIRAN on 1800-599-0019.

Gujarat Suicide Rate and Reasons (2021/2022)

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