India - A recent study published in The Lancet Regional Health has revealed a concerning trend of rising suicide rates among Indian men. The study found that in 2021, married men recorded a suicide death rate of 24.3 deaths per one lakh people, nearly triple the rate of 8.4 among women. This alarming trend has raised concerns about the mental health of Indian men and the factors contributing to this surge in suicides.
The study, titled "Changing Pattern of Suicide Deaths in India," analyzed data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) between 2014 and 2021. The findings indicate that the suicide death rate among Indian men has increased by over one-third in the past seven years. In 2014, 89,129 men died by suicide, compared to 42,521 women. However, by 2021, the number of male suicides had risen to 1,18,979, while female suicides had increased to 45,026.
The study identified two major factors contributing to the rising suicide rates among Indian men: family problems and health issues. According to the report, there was a 107.5% increase in the citation of family problems as a reason for suicide among men during the study period. This was attributed to factors such as financial struggles, marital discord, and domestic violence.
Health issues, particularly chronic illnesses and mental health disorders, were also found to be significant contributors to male suicides. The study highlighted the need for better access to mental health services and increased awareness about suicide prevention measures.
The age group of 30-44 years was found to have the highest suicide death rate among men, with a rate of 27.2 per one lakh population. This was followed by the 18-29 age group, where the rate increased from 20 in 2014 to 25.6 in 2021.
The study also found that daily wage workers were at a higher risk of suicide, with the number of suicides nearly tripling between 2014 and 2021. Unemployment was also identified as a risk factor, with unemployed men and women having high suicide death rates of 48.2 and 27.8, respectively, in 2021.
The findings of the study underscore the urgent need to address the issue of suicide among Indian men. The government and healthcare providers must work together to improve access to mental health services, raise awareness about suicide prevention, and address the underlying socioeconomic factors that contribute to suicide.
