New Delhi, Sep 10 (IANS) – On the occasion of World Suicide Prevention Day, Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Wednesday urged citizens to speak more openly about mental health and work collectively to reduce the stigma surrounding it.
Observed globally every year on September 10, the day serves as a reminder to address suicide with compassion and understanding. With more than 720,000 suicides reported worldwide annually, the issue remains one of the most pressing global health concerns.
“World Suicide Prevention Day reminds us of the importance of compassion and care for people who may be silently struggling. By listening without judgment and creating open spaces, we can bring hope to those in pain,” Nadda wrote on X.
The 2025 theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” calls for openness, empathy, and support for those at risk. “With kindness and understanding, we can build a safer, more hopeful world for everyone,” Nadda added.
India accounts for a third of female suicides and nearly a quarter of male suicides worldwide, with over 100,000 deaths each year. NCRB data shows suicide rates in India have risen steadily from 9.9 per lakh population in 2017 to 12.4 in 2022.
To tackle the crisis, the government introduced the National Suicide Prevention Strategy (NSPS) in 2022, aiming to reduce suicide deaths by 10% by 2030. Initiatives such as Tele-MANAS (14416 helpline), District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK), and Manodarpan are strengthening access to mental health care at both community and institutional levels.
The Ministry of Health noted that Tele-MANAS now operates across 36 states and UTs, handling over a million calls, while the DMHP covers 767 districts. Mental health services have also been integrated into 1.78 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs nationwide.
“Let us replace fear with empathy and isolation with support. Start the conversation – it could save a life. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t wait — call Tele-MANAS at 14416 for free, confidential mental health support and guidance,” the Ministry said.
