– Mohammed Atherulla Shariff
Bengaluru: India’s youth face a growing crisis—not from war or disease, but from suicide. NCRB data reveals 1,70,924 suicides in 2022, the highest globally. Young people aged 18-30 made up 35%, while minors accounted for 6%. Student suicides rose by 4%, reaching 13,044, making up 7.6% of total suicides.
WHO ranks suicide as the third leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds. A 2024 Springer study estimates 52,000 annual suicides among children and adolescents. The crisis is worsening, and India is failing its youth.
Academic pressure is a major cause. Parents’ expectations, a rigid education system, and a highly competitive environment push students to the brink. Kota, India’s coaching hub, reported seven student suicides in just two months of 2024. Education is now a fight for survival, not learning.
Unemployment is another key factor. A shrinking job market and poor work conditions leave young graduates hopeless. High suicide rates among daily wage earners highlight economic struggles. Caste-based discrimination further isolates Dalit and tribal students, making them feel unwelcome in elite institutions. These deaths reflect a failing system.
India must act. Mental health education in the National Education Policy is a start, but more is needed. Access to therapists, affordable treatment, and stronger support systems in schools and workplaces are crucial. Fixing unemployment is key to restoring stability and hope.
Families must change. Mental health struggles should be taken seriously. Emotional well-being is as vital as academics and finance. The stigma around mental health must end. Ignoring this crisis will have dire consequences.
A nation that neglects its youth is walking on thin ice. Action is needed now—before more lives are lost.
Islamic Perspective on Addressing Suicide
Islam provides a holistic approach to mental health, emphasizing faith, community, and well-being. The Quran says: “And do not kill yourselves [or one another]. Indeed, Allah is to you ever Merciful.” (4:29). Islam promotes prayer, patience, and gratitude in hardships.
Faith and Connection with Allah – Salah, Quran recitation, and Dua build resilience and hope.
Community Support – Islam encourages brotherhood. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stressed helping others in distress.
Mental and Emotional Well-being – Islam values mental health. Seeking counseling aligns with the Prophet’s teachings.
Economic Justice (Zakat & Sadaqah) – Islam promotes fair policies and charity to aid the jobless and struggling.
Parental and Educational Reform – Islam teaches nurturing children with love, not pressure. Education should be enlightening, not burdensome.
Applying these principles in policy and society can create a healthier, hopeful future for India’s youth.
