Faisalabad witnesses alarming surge in suicides

Reportedly, unemployment is major reason behind this desperate step

FAISALABAD: Suicide and homicide rates have risen among men and women owing to issues including financial problems, marital issues and domestic disputes.

The statistics collected from Faisalabad district in the year 2019 showed that 262 people took their lives by consuming pesticides and other poisonous substances including medicines. Reportedly, the lives of 3,010 people were saved after providing them first aid treatment.

Faisalabad district showed a record increase in suicidal rates. So far, no preventive measures have been taken to monitor the sale and purchase of poisonous medicines.

The data obtained by The Express Tribune from five hospitals revealed that in January, 230 people consumed poison whereas 25 of the victims died.

‘One person commits suicide in every 40 seconds’

In February, 340 persons committed suicide and among them, 22 lost their lives. In the month of March, 365 men and women attempted to end their lives by ingesting harmful pills and 21 of these victims could not survive. Similarly, in April, the suicide rate rose to 390 registered cases, of which 23 victims lost their lives.

In May, 320 people attempted suicide out of whom 19 died. A total of 260 people attempted suicide in June of which 20 lost their lives. In July, 370 people committed suicide, of which 19 passed away. In August, 410 people consumed poisonous substances and sprays of which 21 died.

Moreover, in the month of September, 285 people attempted suicide out of which 19 victims died. During the month of October, 19 men and women chose death over life by consuming poisonous pills and acid while 80 attempted suicide.

In November 16 men and women took their lives while 85 attempted to consume acid. From December 1 to December 25, a total of 17 people committed suicide over issues related to unemployment and other financial problems. A total of 60 people were rushed to different hospitals where they were treated immediately and sent home after their recovery because of the efforts of medical staff. 

Published in The Express Tribune, January 8^th, 2020.