||Black and White Digital News||

||Parvinder Singh November 22, 2024||

JAMMU/Kashmir : A Growing Concern Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), often described as the crown jewel of India, is grappling with an alarming crisis. According to data released by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), over 1,700 cases of suicide attempts have been recorded in the region over the past three years. On average, two individuals attempt suicide daily across J&K—a distressing trend that shows no signs of abating.

Depression: The Silent Culprit:

Experts attribute more than 70% of these cases to individuals suffering from depression. A report by a Srinagar-based news agency underscores that the actual numbers may be even higher, as societal stigma often compels families to remain silent. “Many cases go unreported due to fear of societal judgment,” said a leading mental health expert. “Depression, compounded by external pressures, is creating a crisis that can no longer be ignored.”

Parental and Peer Pressure; The Unseen Burden:

The role of parental and peer pressure in this escalating crisis is significant. “Parents today expect their children to outperform everyone else. This pressure is turning children into robots with little room for emotional growth,” the expert explained. He added that when these young individuals fail to meet expectations, they often face intimidation from their parents, leading to severe mental health repercussions.

Academic and career competition, coupled with a lack of moral education, are driving the youth into a dark abyss,” he remarked, highlighting the societal shift toward relentless achievement at any cost.

A Multi-Faceted Issue:

The causes of suicide attempts in J&K are diverse and interlinked. Academic failures, failed relationships, domestic abuse, family disputes, and online harassment are among the primary triggers. “Victims often feel trapped in a cycle of uncertainty and isolation,” said a sociologist. “This withdrawal from society becomes a breeding ground for despair, eventually pushing individuals to the edge.”

Youth at Risk:

The youth of J&K appear to be particularly vulnerable. With rising aspirations and increasing exposure to global standards of success, the gap between expectations and reality is widening. In many cases, this gap manifests as chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. Experts warn that the lack of emotional support and mental health awareness exacerbates the situation.

The Call for Action:

Mental health professionals and sociologists are urging immediate intervention. They advocate for increased mental health awareness campaigns, accessible counseling services, and the integration of moral education in schools. “We need to create safe spaces where individuals can talk about their struggles without fear of judgment,” said a psychiatrist based in Srinagar.

Additionally, they stress the importance of addressing the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Families and communities must be educated to recognize the signs of distress and provide support rather than judgment.

The Way Forward:

Jammu and Kashmir’s suicide crisis is a mirror reflecting the challenges faced by a society caught between tradition and modernity. As two individuals attempt suicide every day, it is imperative for policymakers, educators, and community leaders to take decisive action. Failure to address this issue now could result in irreparable damage to the social fabric of the region.

This crisis demands collective effort—a fusion of awareness, compassion, and systemic change. Only then can J&K hope to reverse the rising tide of despair and give its people a reason to live with hope and dignity.