Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2021  

The Lancet study has recently analysed data from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2021, offering valuable insights into global health trends and challenges

India-Related Suicide Death Rate Findings

• Overall Decline: The suicide death rate decreased from 18.9 per lakh population in 1990 to 13 per lakh population in 2021.
• Gender-Specific Trends:
• Females: Declined from 16.8 in 1990 to 10.3 in 2021.
• Males: Declined from 20.9 in 1990 to 15.7 in 2021.
• Most Vulnerable Section: In 2020, educated women in India exhibited the highest suicide death rates, with family problems identified as the most common factor.

Initiatives Responsible for Reducing Suicides

• Decriminalization: The Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 removed criminal liability for suicide, replacing Section 309 of IPC.
• National Suicide Prevention Strategy (2022): Targets a 10% reduction in suicide mortality by 2030.
• WHO’s Mental Health Action Plan (2013–2030): Emphasizes the importance of mental health for overall well-being.
• Additional Measures: National Mental Health Policy (2014), SDG target 3.4, and toll-free helplines like Manodarpan and KIRAN.