Recent tragedies in Assam highlight a disturbing rise in suicides, emphasising the urgent need for better mental health support and understanding to address the underlying issues and prevent further loss
Assam’s rising suicide rates highlight the urgent need for a deeper understanding of the underlying causes and more effective intervention strategies
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Suicide, the act of taking one’s own life, is a tragic response to complex personal struggles and mental health challenges. It is caused by self-inflicted harm with the intent to end life. A suicide attempt occurs when someone harms themselves with the intention of dying, but does not succeed.
In recent years, Assam has seen a rise in the number of suicide cases.
But the question remains: Is death really an answer to life’s difficulties?
On the morning of August 9, IIT Guwahati student was discovered hanging in her room in Disang Hostel. The student, identified as Soumya, was pursuing an M.Tech degree and hailed from Uttar Pradesh. A source in IIT Guwahati told GPlus, "She was found hanging from a ceiling fan in her room. It is a devastating loss for the community." The news has left the campus community in shock, as they battle with the loss of a young life full of promise and potential.
The reasons behind her decision remain unknown. A senior official from the Kamrup police, speaking to GPlus, confirmed, "The investigation is underway, but the cause of the suicide is still unclear."
Several factors can increase the risk of suicide. These include mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, substance abuse, a history of trauma or abuse, and chronic stress due to personal, financial, or professional problems. Social isolation, relationship issues, and lack of access to mental health care are also significant risk factors. On the other hand, protective factors like strong personal relationships, a sense of community, access to mental health resources, and effective coping skills can help prevent suicide.
This incident is not an isolated one. On June 29, another event occurred when a 27-year-old man, Mrinmoy Talukdar from Tihu, ended his life while live streaming on Facebook. The incident took place on Zoo Road at around 6:00 p.m. A police official from Geetanagar police station, where Mrinmoy lived in a rented house, told GPlus, "It was a shocking incident for everyone who knew him and for those who witnessed it live on social media."
The string of suicides continued on July 31, when a Class XII student from the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM), was found dead in his hostel room. Another case that shook the community happened on July 9, when Dr. Narayan Debnath, the Vice Principal of Swahid Jadav Nath Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, died by suicide at his quarters on the college premises. Dr. Debnath, 57, was a respected figure in the academic community, and his sudden death left many bewildered and grieving.
On June 19, IPS officer Shiladitya Chetia, who was serving as the secretary to the home and political department of the Assam government, shot himself. According to sources, Chetia took his life after hearing about his wife's death in the hospital, where she had been battling cancer. A former Superintendent of Tinsukia and Sonitpur districts, Chetia had reportedly been on leave for four months, perhaps reflecting the emotional toll of his wife's illness.
Assam’s rising suicide rates highlight the urgent need for a deeper understanding of the underlying causes and more effective intervention strategies. Mental health experts stress that suicide is not just an individual issue, but a societal one. It reflects broader challenges, such as stigma around mental health, lack of awareness, and insufficient support systems.
Psychologists and psychiatrists in Assam are particularly concerned about this trend. They emphasise the importance of recognising the warning signs of suicide and providing timely support to those in need. Early intervention, counseling, and community support can make a significant difference in preventing these tragic losses.
Talking to GPlus, Kankan Sarmah, a well-known psychologist in Guwahati said, "Whether it's a man or a woman, when someone feels trapped in their depression with no way out and no one to turn to, they may see suicide as their only option. But this is not the solution." He emphasised that individuals who resort to suicide often do so because they are emotionally unstable or lack the willpower to face their challenges. "People who are emotionally unstable lose their willpower or the ability to maintain a strong sense of purpose," he added.
How can it be prevented?
Addressing the critical question of prevention, Sarmah stressed the importance of proper guidance and counseling. "Suicide can be prevented," he said. "With the right support systems in place, such as access to professional counseling and a strong network of emotional support, individuals can find a way through their darkest moments."
He elaborated, using examples to illustrate his point: "Take a teenager, for instance, who is stressed about academic performance or struggling with a personal relationship. They might feel overwhelmed and, without thinking of the long-term consequences, consider suicide. They often do this without a second thought about their future, their dignity, or the impact on their loved ones." Sarmah noted that if these young individuals receive timely counseling and are encouraged to talk about their feelings and fears, many lives could be saved.
Sarmah also highlighted the need to change the way we perceive life's challenges, especially among students. "Consider a student who has studied hard but does not get the results they expected. They might feel like a failure, but they need to understand that exams are just a small part of life. The real challenges are those they will face every day, in their personal and professional lives. Passing or failing an exam does not define one’s entire life or worth."
He continued, "The process of thinking critically, understanding oneself, and learning how to cope with life's ups and downs is just as important as academic success. Developing a healthy thought process, learning how to discuss issues openly, and understanding different perspectives—these are crucial skills that shape a person's character and resilience."
The conversation around mental health in Assam is slowly gaining traction, but Sarmah believes there is still much work to be done. "We need to start treating mental health with the same seriousness as physical health," he stated. "Educational institutions, workplaces, and families all have a role to play in creating a supportive environment where people feel safe to express their feelings and seek help when needed."
"We need more awareness programmes, more open conversations, and more resources dedicated to mental health. Death should never be seen as the only way out. We must all work together to make sure everyone knows there is help available and that they are not alone", Sarmah added.