India carries a heartbreaking truth: we lose more people to suicide than any other country. In 2022, that number was 1.71 lakh. There was a person with dreams behind each of those numbers, and families are now left with nothing. This pain affects homes, schools, offices, and streets. And when leaders in business or public life choose silence, the weight only grows heavier.
On this World Suicide Prevention Day, which is observed on September 10 every year, we spoke to Pritika Singh, Mental Health Expert and CEO, Prayag Hospitals, Noida, who explained the role of communication in preventing suicidal thoughts.
Causes of Suicide?
Suicide does not occur in isolation. Studies show that depression and alcohol use disorders are known risk factors, but many suicides happen suddenly when someone is in a crisis. Triggers can be anything from losing a job, having money problems, or a relationship ending to feeling alone, being discriminated against, having chronic pain, or being abused. The World Health Organization states that the biggest risk factor is having tried to kill yourself before. These patterns show that pressure that is not spoken can kill.
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The Power of Talking
Talking about what is bothering oneself can change how things turn out. “When people discuss their problems, the feeling of being alone begins to dissipate. This could mean making places in offices, schools, or families where people can talk about stress and mental health openly instead of hiding them away as a sign of weakness. People are less afraid to be vulnerable when the culture around them says it's okay to ask for help,” said Singh.
The Scale of the Problem
India’s suicide mortality rate in 2016 stood at 16.5 per 100,000 population, compared to the global average of 10.5, according to WHO data. The most vulnerable include young people aged 15–29, the elderly, and persons with special needs. These figures show suicide affects many demographics and circumstances, making shared responsibility all the more necessary.
Understanding the Build-Up
Suicide is rarely an impulsive act; it is often the result of a mindset that builds slowly over time. The way someone deals with conflict, interprets events, and reacts to the behavior of others deeply shapes how they feel about themselves and their life. “When every word, gesture, or incident is filtered through inner turmoil, it can intensify feelings of despair. Over time, this constant strain can make a person emotionally fragile. But this cycle doesn’t have to reach its breaking point, with early recognition, honest dialogue, and support, it can be interrupted,” added Singh.
Also Read: World Suicide Prevention Day: Expert Explains Link Between Mental Health Disorders And Suicide Risk
Legal and Policy Changes
A shift began with the Mental Healthcare Act of 2017, which removed the idea of suicide as a crime. Instead of punishment, it promised care and dignity for people who try to end their lives. That change matters, but laws can only go so far. What really makes the difference is how families, friends, schools, and workplaces respond. Breaking the silence, removing the shame, and having honest conversations can sometimes be enough to save a life.
Programs and Community Role
Government programs like the National Mental Health Programme and the Health and Wellness Centres under Ayushman Bharat are designed to expand access to care. Deaddiction centres and rehabilitation services add to this framework. Yet these systems alone cannot carry the entire responsibility. Communities and workplaces form the frontlines where individuals spend most of their daily lives, and it is within these circles that preventive action can take shape.
Leadership Matters
“Leaders need to do more than just make rules and checklists. They need to set a tone that accepts that people are fragile at work. When senior leaders talk openly about the stress they are under, it breaks the idea that silence is strength. The ability to ask for and accept help is a sign of real strength,” advised Singh. These changes in how people see things can spread through organizations, lowering stigma and encouraging early intervention.
If you do not deal with your mental health issues, you will suffer and pay more. When employees feel alone in their problems, it hurts productivity, creativity, and retention in businesses. A company that cares about its employees' well-being through counseling, peer support, or awareness programs is protecting its workers and its long-term future. More importantly, it sends the message that people are more than just their work.
Why Talking Helps
People often talk about medical treatments when they talk about preventing suicide, and that is a good thing. But sharing mental pressure is a cheap and effective way to help people that goes along with clinical care. Talking to a trusted coworker, family member, or professional can help you break the cycle of hopelessness. For some, hearing "You are not alone" at the right time can make all the difference.
Bottomline
Singh concluded, “The conversation around suicide prevention in India should emphasise the need to work together on policy, professional care, and personal connection. Data shows the magnitude of the problem, but the first step to solving it is for people to choose to speak up and for others to choose to listen. When you break the silence bubble, you create a culture of care where no one has to carry a heavy burden alone.”
The point is clear for leaders, policymakers, and regular people. Talking about stress shows strength. People feel cut off when you do not say anything. Talking to someone can help, and sometimes that is enough to save a life.