Suicide: a disturbing factor in the ‘development model’ of Kerala, India

Abstract

To report the prevalence and causes of suicide in Kerala, which is a well-developed Indian state in terms of better demographic and health indicators. This paper is based on the data accessed from the annual statistical report of the National Crime Records Bureau. Data pertaining to suicides that occurred in Kerala in 2007 were analyzed. Despite Kerala’s good standard of living with comparatively low birth and death rates, the state reports a high rate of suicides with 26.3 per 100,000 population, compared to the national rate of only 10.8 (in 2007). Family problems are cited as the major cause of suicide, followed by ill health and economic reasons. In Kerala state, men outnumber women (74% vs. 26%). While the majority of the male victims were self-employed, most of the female victims were home makers. More than 80% of the victims were in the age group between 15 and 59 years. The problem of suicide is discussed in the context of Kerala’s better demographic and health status compared to other Indian states. This problem has to be analyzed within the frame of reference of the broad and extensive socioeconomic status information concerning the victims and their settings. It is not adequate to intervene to change an individual’s suicidal behavior when the issue is related to the problems of the society as a whole.