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Experts Call for National Strategy as Suicide Rates Surge in Pakistan
At an event for World Suicide Prevention Day, experts highlighted the alarming rise in suicide rates in Pakistan, urging for a national strategy to address this crisis.
ND
by News Desk
2024-09-11
Experts Call for National Strategy as Suicide Rates Surge in Pakistan

At a World Suicide Prevention Day event in Islamabad, mental health professionals and experts highlighted the increasing suicide rates in Pakistan and called for immediate national action to address this public health crisis. The event's theme, "Change the Narrative on Suicide," aimed to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and promote compassion and understanding.

 

According to Professor Rizwan Taj, Chairperson of the Psychiatry Department at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Pakistan has seen a steady rise in suicide rates. He cited World Health Organisation (WHO) statistics showing that the suicide rate in Pakistan increased from 7.3 per 100,000 people in 2019 to 9.8 in 2022. Professor Taj emphasized that suicide is not just a mental health issue but a public health crisis that requires urgent national intervention.

 

Among the alarming trends noted was the use of burns in 40% of suicide cases in the country. Rural areas reported a 12% rate of suicidal ideation, with many individuals experiencing thoughts of self-harm. Between 2019 and 2020, 2,295 suicides were documented, with males accounting for nearly 62% of the cases.

 

Globally, an estimated 703,000 people die by suicide each year, and more than half of these deaths occur in individuals under the age of 50. Professor Taj stressed the collective responsibility of society in addressing this issue, stating, "We all have a role to play in saving lives."

 

The event emphasized the importance of raising awareness at both national and local levels. Educational initiatives, media campaigns, and community outreach were highlighted as crucial tools in suicide prevention efforts. By working together, the hope is to create a world where suicide is no longer a prevalent issue.

 
Tagged:

WorldSuicidePreventionDay

ChangeTheNarrative

SuicidePrevention

MentalHealthAwareness
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