The Escalation of Suicide Cases in Jammu & Kashmir
Suicide is the deliberate act of ending one's own life. It is a tragic and complex event that is influenced by various factors, such as mental health issues, psychological distress, societal pressures, trauma, and environmental circumstances. Often arising from intense emotional pain and feelings of hopelessness, suicide can have significant impacts on families, communities, and society as a whole. The prevention of suicide necessitates addressing these underlying factors through strong mental health support, social interventions, and community involvement.
Kashmir is also facing an alarming increase in the rate of suicides. The escalation of suicide cases in Kashmir is a deeply concerning trend that demands urgent attention and intervention. In recent years, the region has witnessed a disturbing rise in suicide rates, reflecting underlying social, economic, and political challenges. This phenomenon not only poses a significant public health crisis but also sheds light on the complex dynamics and the impact of prolonged conflict on the mental well-being of Kashmiri residents. Understanding the root causes and implementing effective preventive measures is paramount to address this pressing issue and safeguard the lives of individuals in the region. In Kashmir, it is alleged that suicides are said to have claimed the second-highest number of lives after militancy. In the entire State, at least one suicide is recorded every alternate day and there is hardly a hamlet or Mohalla that was left untouched by more than one incident of suicide attempts.
The Jhelum River, which flows through Srinagar city and has seven bridges spanning it, is becoming a frequent location for suicides in Srinagar. Experts believe that drug addiction is a significant contributing factor, as it can be seen as a form of self-harm. The experts note that children often hesitate to confide in their parents about their difficulties, which worsens the problem. Multiple factors contribute to the prevalence of suicide in Kashmir, all stemming from flawed socio-cultural norms. Those who choose to end their own lives are essentially protesting against this flawed system, reacting to their victimization.
Concerning children, conventional rather than scientific approaches are commonly employed, depriving them of necessary choices and conducive environments. This has resulted in a concerning trend of youth suicides over the past decade, indicating systemic societal issues. The root of the problem lies within the family unit, where children are left vulnerable to the influence of technology and gadgets, leading to excessive internet use. Consequently, adolescents engage in harmful activities without fully understanding the repercussions on their well-being.
Moreover, individuals grappling with emotional issues tend to be introverted, allowing their pain to accumulate until it drives them to extreme measures like suicide, viewing it as a shortcut to escape their problems. Marital stress also negatively impacts children, potentially leading to suicidal thoughts. It’s crucial for parents to responsibly handle their disputes and actively contribute to their child’s development.
There are many reasons why people might think about suicide, such as pressure from parents, academic setbacks, lack of moral and religious guidance, mental health problems, traumatic experiences, substance abuse, grief, relationship difficulties, and feelings of despair. However, suicide is not inevitable. By using effective interventions that are supported by evidence, we can greatly reduce the occurrence of suicide and suicide attempts. These interventions can be implemented at different levels, including on a population-wide scale, within specific groups, and on an individual basis. Some strategies to consider are limiting access to common methods of suicide, like pesticides, firearms, and certain medications, practising responsible reporting in the media, implementing interventions in educational settings, creating policies to address harmful alcohol consumption, identifying and treating mental health disorders early, managing chronic pain, and addressing acute emotional distress. It is also important to train healthcare providers who are not specialists in suicidal behaviour assessment and management and to ensure that individuals who have attempted suicide receive comprehensive follow-up care. Community support networks also play a vital role in prevention efforts.
People need help, love, motivation, and understanding. Together, we have the power to stop this menace and create an environment where people vulnerable to suicide can openly talk, express their feelings, and discuss their problems. Sometimes, all they need is someone to assure them that everything will be okay. Each of us can play our part by listening to others and helping them overcome desperate thoughts of taking their own lives. It is important to empathize and understand that suicide is not inherent to a person's nature, but rather a state of mind that can be positively addressed. Just like any of us, they deserve to have a good life, and this can only be possible when society comes together and joins hands to solve this problem. Life is a gift, and we should use it to its fullest potential, helping to save the lives of people who should have an equal opportunity to enjoy their gift. Problems do not mark the end; they can be resolved and dealt with. Ending one's life is not a solution. Burning the book of our lives is not a solution. We were not born to be quitters; we should ask for help and speak up about our problems. Live a life that uplifts you, and one day you will look back with pride, appreciating how far you have come.
Note: Asif Ahmad Dar is a scholar with an LLM degree from the University of Asia Pacific in Dhaka and a BA-LLB from the School of Law at the University of Kashmir. Views, data and opinions expressed are his own and do not represent the stance of The Viral Post.
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