World Suicide Prevention Day: Experts stress empathy and early intervention

“There is no life without hardship. Life must often be endured with tears,” a film poet once wrote. The words reflect a truth that many forget. Life is a gift, beautiful and valuable, meant to be lived fully. Its struggles are temporary. Yet, for some, even small setbacks feel unbearable, leading them to end their lives.

On World Suicide Prevention Day, mental health professionals in Visakhapatnam stressed the need for awareness, empathy, and timely intervention. Awareness drives and counselling sessions were organised across the city to encourage people, especially the youth, to talk about their struggles and seek help without hesitation.

Just last week, a 21-year-old student took his life after failing an exam. “He had been a bright student, but the pressure he felt in that moment was overwhelming,” said a neighbour. His grieving parents are still struggling to understand the sudden loss. Doctors say cases like his show how impulsive such decisions can be.

“Suicides are often the result of extreme mental stress. In that state, people feel trapped and unable to see a way out. But with the right support, many of these lives can be saved,” said Dr. Poojita, psychiatrist, Visakhapatnam.

Reports of suicides due to family conflicts, financial strain, domestic violence, academic setbacks, heartbreak, and unemployment are becoming common in the district. The breakdown of joint families, lack of emotional support, and the growing influence of social media and entertainment are also contributing factors.

Globally, about seven lakh people die by suicide each year. India accounts for one in four of these deaths. Experts estimate that while 1.7 lakh lives were officially lost in India last year, nearly 30 lakh people attempted suicide.

Psychiatrists advise families to watch for signs such as disturbed sleep or eating habits, withdrawing from loved ones, talking about being a burden, giving away belongings, seeking forgiveness, expressing hopelessness, and showing restlessness, irritability, or frequent crying.

“Those at risk should never be left alone. Most suicide attempts happen in moments of impulse. Timely care, listening without judgment, and seeking professional help can save lives,” said Dr. Poojita. She added that suicide is not a mental disorder but a preventable act if recognised early.

Families, teachers, and peers play a crucial role. Children should be taught resilience from a young age, learning to face both small and large challenges. Empathy, reassurance, and support, experts say, can go a long way in preventing tragedies.

As awareness programmes unfold across Visakhapatnam on Wednesday, the message was clear: life, despite its struggles, is worth living. With care, patience, and professional help, tomorrow can indeed be better.