Family problems behind majority of suicides in state: NCRB

Bhubaneswar: Family problems emerged as the leading cause behind suicides in Odisha in 2024, with more than half of the victims ending their lives due to domestic and interpersonal distress, according to the latest Crime in India-2024 report released by the National Crime Records Bureau.According to the report, the state recorded 5,791 suicides in 2024, of which 3,287 cases, accounting for 56.8%, were attributed to family problems. Mental health experts said the findings underline the growing emotional and psychological stress within households and relationships.Despite a marginal improvement in the overall situation, Odisha’s suicide rate continued to remain above the national average. The state recorded a suicide rate (number of suicides per one lakh population) of 12.4 in 2024 against the national average of 12.2.The NCRB data showed that Odisha registered a 3.3% decline in total suicides in 2024 compared to the previous year. However, experts cautioned that the figures continue to reflect a serious public health concern.The suicide rate data placed Odisha in the middle range among states. Odisha’s suicide rate was nearly on a par with Gujarat and slightly lower than West Bengal, which recorded a rate of 13. Haryana and Himachal Pradesh remained below Odisha with rates of 12.1 and 11.1, respectively.Mental health experts said the predominance of family-related issues in suicide cases points to increasing social stress, unresolved domestic conflicts and lack of emotional support systems. They added that financial distress, unemployment, academic pressure and untreated mental health conditions often aggravate tensions within families.“The fact that Odisha’s suicide rate is above the national average means the state needs stronger mental health interventions and counselling systems, especially in rural and vulnerable communities,” said Priyambada Maharana, a Bhubaneswar-based psychiatrist.Experts said improved awareness regarding counselling services and crisis intervention mechanisms may have contributed to the slight decline in suicides during the year. “However, the high share of suicides linked to family problems highlights the urgent need for accessible psychological support, family counselling services and community-based mental health programmes,” Maharana added.(In times of distress, dial Tele MANAS toll-free helpline number 14416 or 1-800-891-4416)