EVERY 40 seconds, someone dies by suicide. According to the World Health Organisation, over 700,000 people take their own lives every year. While suicide is often the result of untreated mental health conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, or addiction, it is not inevitable. It is preventable. Yet, for many, suicide appears to be the only escape from despair, even as it leaves behind a legacy of grief and unanswered questions for those left behind.
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Alarming reality听
IN BANGLADESH, suicide has become an unspoken epidemic. Tragic stories frequently make headlines: a Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology student ending his life over academic stress, a Jahangirnagar University student succumbing to despair after disputes with peers, and individuals overwhelmed by financial burdens, such as a garment trader or a microfinance worker, taking their own lives. These stories are not isolated incidents but part of a growing crisis.
Statistics reveal a grim picture. Every year, an estimated 10,000鈥�14,000 people die by suicide in Bangladesh, making it the second leading cause of injury-related deaths after road accidents. Data from 2021 recorded over 11,000 suicides, a startling figure. Among university graduates, societal expectations and relentless pressure push many to the brink. Students, expected to excel academically while juggling personal and social responsibilities, often crumble under the weight.
Adolescents are particularly vulnerable. Suicide is the leading cause of injury-related deaths among 10- to 19-year-olds in Bangladesh. Research reveals alarming rates of suicidal ideation among young people, with 4.4 per cent of boys and 5.8 per cent of girls aged 13 to 17 reporting suicide attempts. Rural adolescent girls are at a disproportionately higher risk, with suicide rates up to 17 times higher than their urban counterparts. This vulnerability is often driven by relationship issues, academic pressure, and the pervasive influence of social media.
The Aachol Foundation鈥檚 data highlights the gravity of the situation. Between January and August 2023, 361 students took their own lives, 60 per cent of whom were female. Dhaka division recorded the highest number of incidents, with emotional distress, relationship problems, and academic failure cited as primary factors. These figures underscore the urgent need for intervention.
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Flawed legal framework
DESPITE the growing crisis, Bangladesh鈥檚 legal framework surrounding suicide remains outdated and counterproductive. Under Section 309 of the Penal Code, attempting suicide is a criminal offence punishable by imprisonment, a fine, or both. This colonial-era law, rooted in stigma and misunderstanding, deters individuals from seeking help. Families often face shame and ostracisation if a loved one dies by suicide, perpetuating a cycle of silence and inaction.
Decriminalising suicide attempts is not merely a legislative necessity but a moral imperative. Punishing individuals for their mental health struggles only deepens their despair and alienation. Instead, policies should focus on rehabilitation, compassion, and support to help those in crisis find a way forward.
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Recognising warning signs
ONE of the most effective ways to prevent suicide is by recognising its warning signs. People contemplating suicide often display certain behaviours: expressing feelings of hopelessness, shame, or guilt; withdrawing from loved ones; acting recklessly; or giving away prized possessions. These signs are cries for help; timely intervention can make all the difference.
Public awareness campaigns are crucial in educating communities about these warning signs. Friends, family, and colleagues must feel empowered to offer support, create safe spaces for open dialogue, and encourage individuals to seek professional help. By breaking the silence surrounding suicide, we can foster a culture of understanding and empathy.
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Path forward
BANGLADESH鈥橲 mental health infrastructure is woefully inadequate. According to the WHO, the country has only 0.49 mental health professionals per 100,000 people, far below the global average. Stigma and lack of awareness further exacerbate the issue, discouraging individuals from seeking help. To address this gap, comprehensive mental health programs must be implemented at both national and community levels.
Healthcare professionals need specialised training to identify and address mental health challenges. Schools and universities should integrate mental health education into their curricula, equipping students with coping mechanisms and resilience. Community-based initiatives, such as counselling centres and support groups, can provide accessible resources for those in need. Digital platforms can also play a transformative role, offering helplines, teletherapy, and awareness campaigns to reach a wider audience.
Society and media play a significant role in shaping perceptions of suicide. Unfortunately, sensationalist reporting often does more harm than good. Graphic descriptions, insensitive language, and a lack of emphasis on preventive measures can glorify or stigmatise suicide, leading to copycat behaviour or further marginalisation of those struggling. Media outlets must adhere to guidelines that prioritise sensitivity, avoid sensationalism, and highlight stories of hope and recovery. Public figures and influencers can also use their platforms to challenge stigma and promote mental health awareness. By normalising conversations about mental health, we can create an environment where individuals feel safe seeking help.
Preventing suicide also requires a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of despair. Poverty, unemployment, domestic violence, and substance abuse are significant risk factors that must be tackled through targeted interventions. Strengthening community bonds, fostering social support networks, and creating safe spaces for vulnerable groups can help mitigate these risks.
Adolescents, in particular, need tailored support. Schools should implement peer counselling programs, mental health workshops, and extracurricular activities that promote emotional well-being. Parents and teachers must be educated on the importance of active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental communication. By empowering young people with the tools to navigate life鈥檚 challenges, we can reduce the prevalence of suicide among future generations.
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Call to action
SUICIDE is a complex issue that demands a multifaceted response. It is not enough to address the symptoms; we must confront the underlying causes and dismantle the systemic barriers that perpetuate this crisis. From legal reforms and public awareness campaigns to improved mental health infrastructure and community-based interventions, every step counts.
As Christine Caine once said, 鈥楽ometimes when you鈥檙e in a dark place, you think you鈥檝e been buried, but you鈥檝e actually been planted.鈥� With the right support, even those in the depths of despair can find hope and healing. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that no one feels alone in their darkest moments.
Bangladesh must rise to the challenge, not just with words but with action. The time to address this silent epidemic is now. Together, we can build a society where every life is valued, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
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Nafew Sajed Joy is a writer and researcher.