Help Line needed for counselling
A youth from economically backward section committed suicide recently. The person had cleared Maharashtra Public Service Commission examination and was waiting for interview to be conducted. The wait for almost two years frustrated him and under tremendous stress he decided to end his life.
The issue is being raised for political purpose, by various parties and social organisations. It is unfortunate that a youth ends his life in such a situation. However, reasons for increasing cases o0f suicides needs careful examination. A large number of persons losing jobs during the Covid 19 pandemic, academic losses suffered by the students, loss of life of near and dear once, has added to the frustration of youth and seniors as well.
Psychiatrists and psychologists, however, are of the opinion that these are only conditions. The suicidal tendency is inborn in a person. It is more related to DNA of the person. The person commits suicide in such situations. In other words the situation conducive for him to take the extreme step. Several research papers have been written claiming genetic origin to suicide. The results, however, are not conclusive.
Renowned psychiatrist and counsellor Dr. Nikhil Pande stated that person in distress does not necessarily commit suicide. Only in rare cases it occur. In most of the cases the person in difficult situation adopts newer ways for survival. During the lockdown many have adopted to new methods of earning their livelihood. Pan kiosk, tea stall owners transformed to selling mask and sanitizers, daily need corners etc. The decision to commit suicide is impulsive and can be prevented through counselling. Help Lines have been created for intervention and divert attention of the vulnerable person for the time being. Once the time passes the decision is deferred.
Psychological counsellor Dr. Milind Apte also stated that timely intervention or counselling helps. He also stated that the suicidal tendency is related to genes. During investigation a counsellor seeks information about family history on this issue or tendency.
The cases of suicides are reported from various parts of the country. It appears that the cases are increasing. The experts have stated that the situation has led to people committing suicide. The suicidal tendency in them already existed.
Dr. Jaya Shiwalkar, paediatrician and psychiatric counsellor emphasized the need for having effective Help Lines. For children ChildLine 1098 has been found to be of immense help. Similar infrastructure is required to be made available to prevent impulsive extreme steps by frustrated persons, youths in particular.
