Suicidal Tendencies among Youth – Tips from Dr. Apurva Tiwari, Indore Psychiatrist

Youth suicide is an urgent public health concern in India, and as a practicing psychiatrist in Indore, I see the alarming rise in suicidal tendencies among young people almost every day. Students, young professionals, and even teenagers are increasingly vulnerable due to academic pressure, social expectations, family issues, and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Sadly, many suffer in silence, fearing judgment or not knowing where to seek help.

Things that lead to suicidal thoughts in adolescents include frequently failure in examinations, relationship issues, bullying, or absence of emotional support within the home. In most instances, such young people are not wishing to die so much as to be relieved of terrible emotional distress. Early recognition of this fact is important. In my Indore clinic, treatment starts with an extensive psychiatric assessment of emotional well-being, stressors, and evidence of depression or trauma.

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For intervention, I depend on a mix of methods. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is very effective at assisting young people in the identification and control of detrimental thoughts. Medication, such as SSRIs, might be safely prescribed and with follow-up to some, particularly those with moderate to severe depression. Family counselling is also vital, particularly when home dynamics are a source of stress. Facilitation of open discussion, emotional validation, and non-judgmental listening can go a long way in avertinff risk.

Preventive care is also crucial. Indore schools and colleges need to place emphasis on mental health education, recruit trained counselors, and provide a safe environment where students feel comfortable talking up without fear of any form of retribution. Parents too need to learn to identify early warning signs such as withdrawal, hopelessness, irritability, or sudden behavioral changes. Very often, simply inquiring as to how someone is feeling—and actually hearing them out—can prove life-saving.

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If you or someone close to you is facing any issues, rest assured that there is help available. National helplines such as KIRAN (1800-599-0019) and Foundations that offer free, confidential counseling. You can even see a mental health professional in Indore for personalized attention.

As a psychiatrist, I am of the opinion that no adolescent should ever feel isolated in her/his distress. Suicide can be completely prevented with the proper support, timely intervention, and compassion from family and society. Let us shatter the stigma of mental illness and create a secure, sensitive space for our adolescents.