Tackling Kerala’s mental health challenge

Why in news

A report highlights Kerala's status as having the highest suicide rate in India, attributing the crisis to a rise in mental health issues and a shortage of professionals.

Background

Kerala recorded a suicide rate of 28.5 per one lakh population in 2022 according to the National Crime Records Bureau. The state faces a critical shortage of mental health professionals and a rise in issues like drug addiction and violence.

Facts for Prelims

• FactKerala suicide rate: 28.5 per one lakh population (2022 NCRB report)
• BodyNational Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) provides the data on suicide rates
• PostJaison Joseph, D. Hari Shankar, and Devaki Nambiar are researchers highlighting Kerala's mental health status

For Mains

Q. Discuss the socio-economic factors contributing to the rising suicide rates in Kerala and suggest a multi-stakeholder framework to strengthen the state's mental health infrastructure.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• Professional deficit: Shortage of trained mental health professionals and counselors in Kerala's public health system
• Social-behavioral nexus: Correlation between mental health deterioration and rising drug addiction and violence against women
• Preventive intervention: Need for age-specific mental health programs targeting childhood and geriatric populations

Keywords: Mental Health Infrastructure · Suicide Prevention · Public Health Policy · Socio-behavioral factors · Professional Shortage

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