Suicide rate among youngsters in 15-29 age group up by 2.4 per cent

Hyderabad: The suicide rate among youngsters aged 15 to 29 years has increased from 7.9 to 10.3 per 1,00,000 persons. WHO says the overall rate of suicide in India is 17 per 1,00,000 with 1,35,000 deaths a year. It has also been found that women attempt suicide more than men.

Unemployment, relationship problems, loss of dear ones, family conflicts, cults and humiliation were found to be the main factors. In women, the factors ranged from marital conflicts to sex abuses.

Dr Uma Shanker, president of Indian Psychiatric Society, Telangana branch said, “In youngsters, we are seeing stress due to exams. The action of the parent is actually a mere trigger to an underlying cause. It is very important for parenvvndencies are also found in those who are misusing drugs, suffering from chrvvonic illness and mental disorders.

Senior psychiatrist Dr Preeti Swaroop said, “Those who have suicidal tendencies suffer from depressive disorders. It is important for families and even friends to identify the same.”