The most recent Human Development Report 2021/22 revealed that more than seven lakh people die by suicide yearly, primarily in low- and middle-income nations,. It is highly concerning that the leading cause of death among the 15 to 29 age group is suicide.

The report further stated at least 20 more suicide attempts for every suicide death. Although more men commit suicide than women, but attempts are higher in women.

October 10 is recognized as "World Mental Health Day" as it emphasizes mental healths role in enabling and achieving human development goals. The analysis showed the primary cause of disability worldwide is mental health issues. WHO estimates mental problems affect children, adolescents, and older people most.

Anxiety is the most widespread mental disorder which affects 300 million people globally, and depression.

Mental stress among children is increased when children are the targets of psychological, sexual, or physical abuse. More than half of the children aged 2 to 17 are thought to have experienced emotional, physical, or sexual abuse worldwide. Additionally, anthropogenic pressures, digitization, violence, discrimination, and exclusion raise inequalities.

Countries invest less than 2% of their healthcare budget on mental health spends on an average. Only 10% of those who need mental health interventions receive them globally due to a lack of funding, erroneous assessments, and a scarcity of educated healthcare professionals. Hence, more attention must be paid to developing better treatments and counseling programs for people with mental illnesses.

(Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/more-women-attempt-suicide-more-men-die-by-it-hdr-data/articleshow/94771162.cms )