World Suicide Prevention Day: Lack of mental health awareness flagged for rising cases in Odisha

Today, September 10, marks the global observation of World Suicide Prevention Day. In Odisha, this day comes with a renewed focus on awareness and intervention, as official data highlighted a worrying rise in suicides across the state.

As the annual day aims to spread awareness on mental health challenges and prevent suicide, which has emerged as one of the leading causes of death in the state and in the country as a whole, experts have cited that lack of awareness regarding mental health has created such an alarming scenario.

Global Background And Significance

The International Association for Suicide Prevention, in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the World Federation for Mental Health, first observed World Suicide Prevention Day in 2003.

Since then, countries worldwide have been organising campaigns and awareness drives. By 2011, more than 40 nations were hosting programmes to highlight the importance of prevention and timely support.

Cases In India

According to the National Crime Records Bureau, India reported 1.71 lakh suicides in 2022, marking a 4.2% rise over 2021.

Between 2018 and 2021, suicides rose by 27%. The suicide rate in 2022 stood at more than 12 per one lakh population, the highest recorded so far. Men continue to account for a greater share of deaths compared to women, reflecting a persistent gender gap.

ALSO READ: Odisha to launch ‘Safe Campaign’ to curb rising student suicides in State

Rising Numbers In Odisha

Odisha too has seen an increase in suicide cases, particularly among students. Official records show that student suicides in the state rose by 58% over the past three years.

While 119 cases were reported in 2021, the number rose to 173 in 2022 and further to 189 in 2023. Overall, 5,649 suicide cases were registered in the state in 2021, increasing to 6,140 in 2022. Cumulatively, 17,778 suicides have been recorded in Odisha in the past three years.

Expert Views On Causes

Psychiatrists note that family disputes, mental trauma, and depression are among the most common triggers.

“Suicide is a cry for help. Such cases occur when, psychologically, a person is so distressed that they believe dying would be better than facing the hurdles in front of them,” said psychiatrist Dr. Sarmishtha Priyadarshini.

She added that academic pressure, comparison, and frustration are key factors driving suicides among young people, especially in the 15–30 age group, when depression often begins to manifest.

Health experts stress that depression and related disorders should be treated like any other illness, with timely medical intervention. Awareness campaigns and counselling at schools, colleges, and workplaces are being emphasised as essential tools to prevent suicides and provide support to vulnerable groups.