The decision to commit suicide often orginates from extreme emotional distress and a profound belief that life cannot progress. This grave choice is made by individuals from various walks of life, including the educated, affluent, and renowned. While crises at different life stages can drive many toward suicide, not everyone in similar circumstances chooses this path. 

Multifaceted nature of suicide

Modern medicine views suicide as a complex phenomenon influenced by a range of physical, psychological, social, economic and cultural factors. Simplifying it to a single reason is unscientific. However, there are numerous methods available for preventing and addressing suicide.

Kerala's alarming suicide statistics

In Kerala, suicide rates have reached distressing levels. According to data from the State Crime Records Bureau, the number of suicides in Kerala rose from 8,646 in 2013 to 10,972 in 2023, marking a 27 percent increase. The suicide rate per one lakh population rose from 24.6 in 2013 to 30.9 in 2023. This significant rise poses serious problems for Kerala's economic, social, and health sectors.

Demographic insights

In Kerala, 80 percent of suicides are among men, and 57 percent involve individuals over 45 years old. Common factors include physical and mental illnesses, isolation and financial issues. Interestingly, 77 percent of those who committed suicide were married, contrasting with Western countries where suicide rates are higher among singles or those with family separations. In Kerala, family problems were cited as the reason for 47 percent of suicides, suggesting that marital issues may contribute to the state's high suicide rate. Most suicides, about 80 percent, were by hanging.

Comparative suicide rates

Despite Kerala’s success in various health metrics, its suicide rate is concerning. In 2022, India’s national suicide rate was 12.4 per 1 lakh, while Kerala's rate was over twice that figure. Even developed countries like the US have a lower suicide rate of 12 per lakh. Five years ago, Kerala had the fifth-highest suicide rate among Indian states, and the situation has worsened since.

Suicide attempt statistics

Scientific studies suggest that for every completed suicide, there are approximately 20 suicide attempts. Based on this, in 2023, Kerala may have experienced around 2,19,000 suicide attempts. This places a significant burden on the health sector, which allocates considerable resources to address this preventable issue.

Regional variations

In 2023, Thiruvananthapuram had the highest suicide rate at 48 per lakh, followed by Idukki (47), Kollam (45), and Wayanad (41). Malappuram recorded the lowest rate at 11 per lakh. The high rate of suicides, particularly in densely populated and well-equipped districts, highlights the importance of early detection and intervention.

Family suicides and media influence

Kerala also faces a notable number of family suicides. In 2023, 40 individuals in 17 families committed suicide, with Thiruvananthapuram reporting nine deaths across four family suicides. Other states with high family suicide rates include Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan. The media’s sensational coverage of such incidents, including suicides driven by romantic or familial issues, may influence others to consider suicide as a solution to their problems.

Mental illness and societal challenges

Kerala's suicide rate linked to mental illness is 17.1, significantly higher than the national average of 5 percent. Common mental health issues leading to suicide include depression, alcoholism, drug addiction and schizophrenia. Early treatment for these conditions can prevent many suicides.

Societal and economic factors

Recent changes in Kerala, such as economic downturns, job losses among expatriates, agricultural decline, business failures due to COVID-19, increased drug use among youth and behavioural changes in teenagers, have contributed to the mental health crisis. The influence of Western culture, media portrayals of suicide and natural calamities have further weakened mental resilience.

Preventive measures

Suicides often come with warning signs, including changes in behaviour, insomnia, depression, lack of enthusiasm and excessive drug use. It is crucial for family and friends to recognise these signs and seek help for the individual. Encouraging open communication and seeking professional counseling are vital steps.

The government can also play a role by establishing suicide prevention centers in taluk and district hospitals and restricting access to harmful substances like pesticides and over-the-counter drugs. Telephone helplines for immediate support can also be effective in preventing suicides. 

Preparing citizens to handle social and economic challenges effectively can help alleviate mental stress and reduce suicide rates.

The number of suicides in the last ten years in Kerala

Suicide rate in last ten years in Kerala (in Lakhs)