Many recent studies have shown a spike in suicide rates in India, which has become a matter of concern for Indian society. In fact, India has one of the world’s highest suicide rates for youth aged 15 to 29. Suicidal deaths have gone up “manifold” in many states and most are being done over spur-of-the-moment and in some cases over trivial issues.
Analyze this problem in detail from different perspectives and indicate various social, psychological and economic factors responsible for this problem. Also, distinctly bring out —
a) Why suicide rates are high, especially among youth.
b) Why suicide rate is high even in some developed states like Sikkim, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu?
c) What steps can be taken to stop the youth to take such extreme steps?
Answer:
Suicide is an expression of extreme emotional and mental distress, so much so that the person can’t bear it anymore and want to release himself/herself from it.
A) High suicide rates among youths can be explained on the following basis:
- High aspirations and expectations – like high marks or high rank in competitive exams; quick success in business etc.
- Low compromising attitude.
- Peer pressure
- More concern for social image.
- Low emotional intelligence to realise that one incident in life is not the end and to keep alive patience and perseverance.
- Absence of a joint family or family support in times of emotional crisis.
B) Developed states in India also have high suicide rates due to the following reasons:
- Agricultural distress is present in developed states as well. So, farmer suicide is prevalent.
- There is an absence of an emotional crisis management centre or counselling centre.
- The aspirations of people are even higher. Any failure in education or business is perceived as a huge embarrassment.
- Stress due to urban lifestyle adds to the mental suffering.
- Incidents like failed marriage affect one professionally as well.
- Absence of a joint family or family support in times of emotional crisis.
Suicide is a huge loss to the nation and is affecting us economically socially, culturally and emotionally. The following steps can be taken to stop the youth from taking such extreme steps:
- Inculcate the value of perseverance, tolerance, courage ambition and aspiration.
- Develop emotional intelligence to deal with high emotional stress.
- Youth must be taught to find success in little things.
- Adding environmental values like planting trees and taking care of pets will add joy to life and will help to cope with temporary setbacks in life.
Emotional crisis management centres or counselling centres should be opened in every district.
