Suicide Rates Among Men Surge In Major Indian Cities: For every one female suicide, there were 3 male suicides.

The Silent Crisis: Why Are Suicide Rates Surging Among Men in Indian Cities?

We need to talk about something serious. Something that's often whispered about, but rarely shouted from the rooftops: the rising suicide rate among men in India's bustling metropolises. The recent, tragic death of an AI engineer in Bengaluru has reignited a crucial conversation. Are we, as a society, doing enough to support the mental well-being of our men?

It's easy to get caught up in the daily grind, but let's face it: life in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru is tough. The pressure to succeed, the rising cost of living, and the constant competition can take a serious toll. But beneath the surface, something more profound is brewing, pushing men toward desperate measures.

The Stark Reality: Numbers Don't Lie

The statistics are alarming, and they paint a clear picture:

*   Men are dying by suicide at a far higher rate than women. Think about that. In 2022, over 122,000 men in India ended their lives. That's an average of 336 fathers, sons, brothers, and friends lost every single day.

*   For every woman who dies by suicide, more than two men do.

*   And it's not getting better. Suicide numbers have jumped significantly in recent years.

These aren't just numbers; they represent real lives, real families, and real tragedies.

In the last five years, for every one female suicide, there were 2.44 male suicides.

Why Are Men So Vulnerable? Unpacking the Pressures

So, what's driving this crisis? It's a complex web of factors, but here are some key contributors:

*   The Weight of Expectation: Men often feel immense pressure to be the providers, the protectors, the strong ones. This can lead to crippling stress, especially when faced with financial difficulties, job loss, or mounting debt.

*   The Stiff Upper Lip Myth: From a young age, many boys are taught to suppress their emotions, to "man up" and not show weakness. This ingrained behavior makes it incredibly difficult for men to express their feelings or seek help when they're struggling.

*   The Reluctance to Seek Help: Admitting you're struggling takes courage, and societal judgment can be a huge barrier. Many men fear being seen as weak or inadequate if they reach out for support.

*   The Fallout from Family Issues: Relationship problems, marital discord, and family disputes can push men to the brink.

*   The Trap of Substance Abuse: Some men turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with their pain, but this only exacerbates the problem and increases the risk of suicide.

Stat from TOI Article: Married men twice as likely to commit suicide than married women

It's Time to Break the Cycle: What Can We Do?

This isn't just a problem for individuals to solve; it's a societal issue that requires a collective effort. Here are some things we can all do:

*   Prioritize Mental Health: Make mental well-being a priority, both for yourself and for the men in your lives.

*   Challenge the Stigma: Let's create a culture where it's okay for men to talk about their feelings, to ask for help, and to show vulnerability.

*   Encourage Open Communication: Start conversations. Check in with your male friends, family members, and colleagues. Let them know you're there to listen without judgment.

*   Know the Resources: Familiarize yourself with suicide prevention helplines and mental health services in your area. You never know when you might need to connect someone with help.

Reaching Out: You Are Not Alone

If you're struggling with suicidal thoughts, please know that you are not alone. There is help available, and you don't have to go through this alone. Reach out to one of the following resources:

*   Helpline Number: 1800-233-3330

*   Vandrevala Foundation: 9999666555 or help@vandrevalafoundation.com

*   TISS Helpline: 022-25521111

*   Tele-MANAS Helpline: 1800-91-4416

Let's break the silence and work together to create a more supportive and understanding society for men. Their lives depend on it.

Article from FPJ