[Answered] Discuss the sociocultural factors contributing to the higher incidence of suicide among young girls and women in India. What measures can be taken to address these deeply ingrained issues?

Suicide, the deliberate act of ending one’s own life, is a concerning issue globally. India holds the unfortunate record of having the highest number of suicides worldwide. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), in 2022 alone, 1.71 lakh individuals died by suicide. Alarmingly, 41% of these cases involved individuals under the age of 30. Particularly distressing is the fact that suicide stands as the primary cause of mortality among young women in India.

Sociocultural Factors and Suicides in Young Indian Women

• Substance Abuse: Alcohol and substance abuse are recognized as significant risk factors contributing to youth suicides. Over the past two decades, there has been a noticeable rise in internet usage among young individuals.
• Gender Discrimination: The societal inclination towards sons results in the neglect of girls’ well-being, education, and opportunities, fostering feelings of worthlessness and despair.
• Restricted Autonomy: Many young women face limitations on their autonomy, with decisions regarding education or the pressure of competitive exams, careers, and marriage often dictated by their families. This lack of control can lead to feelings of powerlessness and frustration.
• Domestic Violence: Instances of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse are widespread, causing significant trauma and mental health issues that heighten the risk of suicide.
• Stigma Surrounding Mental Health: Mental health challenges are frequently stigmatized, seen as a sign of weakness, or bringing disgrace to the family. This stigma deters young women from seeking support for conditions like depression and anxiety.

Measures to address the issue

• Skill Development for Youth: Young individuals can benefit greatly from programs aimed at instilling problem-solving, impulse control, and emotional regulation skills, ultimately fostering resilience and coping mechanisms.
• Promotion of Healthy Lifestyle: Embracing a healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a nutritious diet, engaging in consistent physical activity, practicing balanced internet usage, fostering supportive social connections, and participating in activities like yoga and meditation, enhances mental well-being and diminishes the likelihood of suicide among young individuals.
• Improving Family Environment: Enhancing the family setting through the mitigation of domestic violence and alcohol abuse, coupled with offering financial support to those in need, has demonstrated effectiveness in lowering instances of suicidal behavior.
• Educational Reforms: Educating families and communities on topics such as gender equality, fostering healthy relationships, and understanding mental health is paramount. This initiative aids in dismantling detrimental stereotypes and promoting open dialogue.
• Mental Health Services: Increasing access to mental health professionals, especially female counselors, and creating a supportive environment where young women feel comfortable seeking help is critical.

Conclusion

The Ministry of Health formed a task force to develop India’s National Suicide Prevention Strategy. Launched to reduce suicides by 10% by 2030, it stresses collaboration among ministries and focuses on leveraging educational institutions and youth organizations. Immediate steps include nationwide dissemination and budget allocations for implementation at all levels.