Kathmandu: Psychiatrists and psychoanalysts have emphasized the critical roles that every sector must play in preventing suicide. They stress that raising community awareness is essential to discourage suicidal tendencies effectively.

As World Suicide Prevention Day is observed today, including in Nepal, experts highlight the need for substantial actions rather than mere symbolic observance to reduce suicide rates.

Dr. Narendra Singh Thagunna, a psychiatrist, underlines that it is crucial for all levels of government, social organizations, and the media to take responsibility for raising awareness about suicide prevention. He emphasizes that there is currently a lack of serious efforts in Nepal to prevent suicides, despite an annual increase in cases.

Over the past decade, Nepal has seen more than 56,000 suicides, with approximately 7,000 cases recorded last year alone. This represents a significant increase compared to the data from the previous decade. Deputy Inspector General of Police Kuber Kadayat of Nepal Police acknowledges the rising trend in suicide cases in recent years and calls for urgent intervention.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the issue, with relatively high suicide rates during this period. Kadayat emphasizes that mental health should be a priority for all. According to Dr. Thagunna, individuals at risk of suicide may exhibit specific signs or gestures, and timely recognition of these signs, along with prompt attention from family and others, can help prevent potential tragedies.