By our correspondent
KARACHI: In Pakistan, where approximately 60 percent of the population is under 30 years of age, suicide has alarmingly become the fourth leading cause of death. Dr. Nasim Chaudhry, CEO of the Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning (PILL) and a psychiatrist, highlighted that around 700,000 people worldwide die by suicide each year, with Pakistan reflecting a significant rise in these tragic incidents.
To combat this distressing trend, PILL is implementing several initiatives aimed at suicide prevention, including reporting suicide cases and gathering comprehensive data on the issue. Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Sindh Health Minister, addressed a seminar in Karachi, emphasizing the urgent need to tackle the accessibility of harmful substances, such as germicides and rat poisons, which are frequently used in suicide attempts.
Dr. Pechuho pointed out that countries like the United States enforce strict regulations on medical prescriptions, suggesting that similar measures could be beneficial in Pakistan. She noted that, despite the rising rates of suicide, many cases remain underreported, indicating a critical gap in awareness and response. Addressing the broader societal implications, the Sindh Health Minister underscored the pressing need for more mental health professionals in the country.
In an effort to bridge this gap, Lady Health Workers have received training focused on depression and suicide prevention to effectively support their communities. Furthermore, Dr. Pechuho stressed the necessity for specialized rehabilitation facilities in major hospitals for patients suffering from conditions such as cancer, burns, and heart diseases. She also highlighted the importance of addressing issues such as sexual violence and the increasing use of drugs, which significantly contribute to the rising suicide rates in the country.
