The Article First Appeared In The Forbes On May 11, 2023.
Harsh Mariwala, the founder of Marico and the Mariwala Health Initiative (MHI), raises a critical question about how suicide data is collected in India. Currently, suicide statistics are categorized under crime data by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). Mariwala highlights the potential issues with this approach, emphasizing that it may stigmatize individuals and hinder effective intervention strategies.
When suicide is classified as a medico-legal issue, it can discourage people from seeking help. For instance, individuals who have attempted suicide or are identified as at risk may fear police questioning, further adding to their distress. Additionally, revisiting past experiences of suicidal thoughts or attempts can retraumatize survivors. Mariwala stresses the importance of reframing how suicide data is gathered and analyzed to address these challenges and create a supportive framework for affected individuals.
MHI, through its Alliance for Suicide Prevention in India, collaborates with organizations, activists, funders, researchers, and policymakers to tackle the issue of suicide at both individual and community levels. The focus is on creating holistic strategies to prevent suicides and promote mental well-being. Mariwala advocates for a public health approach that respects privacy, ensures access to support systems such as helplines, and understands the broader context of individuals’ mental health struggles.
The data from the NCRB shows a grim reality: 164,033 people died by suicide in 2021, marking a 7.2 percent increase from the previous year. However, Mariwala notes that these figures alone do not provide the nuanced understanding necessary for effective intervention. A public health-oriented approach would entail analyzing data in a way that identifies trends, risk factors, and preventive measures without compromising the dignity or privacy of those affected.
This perspective calls for a shift from viewing suicide as a criminal issue to treating it as a critical health indicator. It involves leveraging community resources, fostering inter-sectoral collaboration, and utilizing data to design informed and compassionate prevention strategies. By addressing the systemic challenges in how suicide data is handled, India can take meaningful steps toward reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and providing better support to those in need.
Read More: The Forbes
Find more Global Indian Top Reads