Article:
World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is a global observation that takes place every year on September 10th to raise awareness about suicide and its prevention. The event, since established by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2003, acts as a focal point to draw attention, reduce stigma, and mobilize various players including organizations, governments, and the public. This year’s triennial theme, “Creating hope through action” signifies alternatives to suicide and is designed to inspire confidence and light in everyone.
Female Suicides In India: A Closer Look
In India, alarming statistics have put housewives on top of the list for suicides in recent years. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, housewives accounted for 51.5% of female suicides in 2021. In the ranking of major states, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Karnataka feature prominently. With housewives also accounting for around 15% of total suicides in India, there’s an urgent need to address this issue.
Factors Complicating the Lives of Housewives in India
Several factors complicate matters for housewives in India leading to fatal outcomes. Many women face restrictions on their mobility, particularly in rural areas, owing to societal norms and safety concerns which often discourage them from traveling alone or venturing far from their homes. Such limited mobility can lead to feelings of isolation and helplessness. Economic dependence on their spouses or families exposes women to different forms of abuse and restricts their financial autonomy.
The Gender Role Crunch and Domestic Abuse
Traditional gender roles and patriarchal norms often result in women having little control over their lives, especially in the sphere of marriage. Expectations that women should conform to the desires of their husbands and in-laws can lead to feelings of powerlessness. The issue of domestic violence, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, is a significant problem in India. Many women endure these forms of abuse silently due to stigma, fear of reprisal, or lack of support systems.
Agricultural Distress, Educational Pressure, and Other Factors
India’s agrarian economy is grappling with several challenges leading to farmer suicides. Factors such as erratic weather patterns, land degradation, high input costs, debts, crop failures, and easy access to lethal means like pesticides contribute to this trend. The country’s competitive education system that places immense pressure on students’ academic performance also influences suicide rates. The lack of mental health services, discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community, and cyberbullying further contribute to the problem.
Government Measures Towards Suicide Prevention
Several initiatives have been launched by the Indian government to combat suicide and its underlying causes. These include the Mental Healthcare Act (MHA), 2017, the KIRAN Helpline, the Manodarpan Initiative, and the National Suicide Prevention Strategy 2022.
Future Course
There are several areas that need attention going forward. Housewives who wish to enter or reenter the workforce would benefit from AI-powered skill development and job placement programs. Improving access to mental health care, particularly in rural areas, is another priority. Stricter regulations on the sale of pesticides and laws against cyberbullying and online harassment can also play an important role in reducing suicides.