How Mental health and Suicide Affects Society
News Mania Desk/30th July 2024
Every year almost 700, 000 people die by suicide. Suicidal thoughts can occur at any stage of life. In the year 2019 suicide was the 4th leading cause of death among 15 to 29 year olds globally. 77% of all suicide cases happened in low middle income countries. Almost 20% of those globally were due to pesticide self poisoning.
The link between suicide and mental health condition- (particularly: depression and alcohol related disorders). Risk factor for suicide include experience of loss, loneliness, discrimination, A relationship breakup, financial problem, chronic pain and illness, violence abuse conflict and other humanitarian emergencies. Taboo around mental health conditions and suicide means many people thinking about suicide do not seek help. Suicide and suicide attempts have a direct impact on families, friends, colleague community and societies.
Mental health issues and suicide have become pressing public health concerns with profound effects on individuals, families, and societies globally. The rising prevalence of mental health disorders and the increasing rates of suicide highlight the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address these issues. Mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder , are increasingly prevalent. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly exacerbated these issues, leading to heightened stress, social isolation, and uncertainty. According to the World Health Organization (WHO),depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting over 264 million people.The economic impact of mental health disorders is staggering. The global economy loses an estimated $1 trillion annually due to lost productivity, absenteeism, and healthcare costs associated with mental health issues. These disorders often lead to disability claims and long-term unemployment, further straining economic resources. Investing in mental health care can significantly reduce these economic burdens by improving productivity and reducing healthcare costs. Mental health problems extend beyond the individuals suffering from them, affecting families and communities. They can lead to strained relationships, reduced quality of life, and social isolation. Children and adolescents with mental health issues often face challenges in educational attainment and social integration, which can have long-term effects on their development and future opportunities.
Mental health and suicidal pressing issues that have far reaching impacts on society. addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach, including policy changes, increased funding for mental health services, community support, and education to reduce stigma and promote mental well being. By prioritising mental health, society can improve the quality of life for millions of individuals and create health a more resilient global community.