Kochi: Kerala witnessed 12 per cent increase in the number of suicide cases within a year, which is four-fold more than the national average. As many as 8,500 individuals killed themselves during the period 2019-20. Acccording to the data revealed by the National Crime Record Bureau, the number of suicide cases touched 9,549 during 2020-21. In India, a maximum number of suicide cases were reported in Kollam.

At least 1,654 persons killed themselves due to unemployment in the state. The mental health experts pointed out that the social, financial and mental pressures caused by Covid-19 and the pandemic induced lockdown had affected the lives of many nationwide.

Familial issues induced 47.7 per cent of suicide cases, while 21 per cent cases were triggered by ill health, reported NCRB.

The steep hike in the number of suicide cases has caused an alarming situation in the state. The figures may cross ten thousand in the upcoming years. The state shall initiate effective interventions by ensuring medical aid to the drug addicts and those who had attempted suicide before, said Dr CJ John, Consultant Psychiatrist, member of Kerala State Mental Health Authority.