Chennai: Tamil Nadu ranks second among all states with 15,777 suicides in the state accounting for 11.8 per cent of total suicides in India, as per the latest National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report.
The rising rates are concerning as even everyday talks of suicides can actually lead to the propagation of suicidal ideas among people in our surroundings, psychologists say. Each suicide is not only a personal tragedy but also affects the lives of families, friends and communities and can cause 'Werther effect' or 'copycat suicide'.
"A copycat suicide is an emulation to attempt suicide once acquainted with such cases through various mediums. A publicised suicide serves as a trigger, in the absence of protective factors, for the next suicide by a susceptible or suggestible person. Such influence should be checked to prevent the rising number of suicides in the state," said Dr Vivian Kapil, psychiatrist, Meenakshi Medical College Hospital.
Psychologists say that the portrayal of suicide cases to prevent them from triggering curiosity and depression among others leads to Werther effect and should be carefully handled.
“To prevent the Werther effect, coping strategies against stress and depression other than suicidal behaviour in adverse circumstances should be promoted by the family members, friends and communities of people who seem to contemplate suicide,” said senior psychologist, Dr V. Raman.
In the wake of the rising number of suicide cases due to online abuse and the propagation of such cases needs attention.
Online mental health groups can be helpful as one needs to counter the suicidal effect by looking at alternatives to problems that lead to suicide contemplation. Socialising, developing a field of interest like sports or music can be helpful,” said counsellor N. Jessie.
Risk factors for Suicide
a. Suicidal ideation,
b. Hopelessness
c. Active Psychological symptoms
d. Substance abuse
f. Psychosocial stress
g. Lack of social support
Warning signs
a) Talking about suicide, dying and self harm.
b) Seeking access to harmful means like guns, knives, pesticides and numerous tablets.
c) Unusual preoccupation about death.
d) Self loathing.
e) Giving away prized possessions
f) Withdrawal from others, social isolation
