Male suicides in Kerala is emerging as a vital solution to the rising suicide rates and mental health challenges faced by Malayali men. Suicide has become a significant social issue in Kerala today. The increasing number of suicides, driven by various reasons and mental health challenges, is creating a major crisis. Kerala ranks fourth in India in terms of suicide rates. According to statistics, men show a higher tendency toward suicide compared to women. Male suicide Kerala statistics.
- According to Kerala State Crime Records Bureau data, the number of suicides in Kerala was 8,646 in 2013, which increased to 10,972 by 2023, showing a significant rise over the years.
- A study conducted by the Office of the Department of Economics and Statistics in Ernakulam district revealed that between 2020 and 2023, 79% of suicides in Kerala were committed by men, while women accounted for 21%.
- The data also indicated that suicide rates were higher among employed individuals compared to unemployed ones. Additionally, several statistics highlight that men have a significantly higher suicide rate than women in Kerala.
- This is undoubtedly a topic that needs to be handled with great sensitivity and seriousness. These statistics highlight a stark reality in a society where a significant stigma still exists around men’s mental health.
- The rising suicide rates in Kerala challenge the common perception that men are always mentally strong and emotionally resilient.
In India, discussions about men’s mental health are generally limited, and Kerala is no exception to this trend. In the context of the increasing suicide rates in Kerala, focused mental attention and care are essential in this area.
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The provision of adequate Malayalam counseling services and access to psychologists’ expertise has become a necessity of the times to address this pressing issue effectively.
Male suicides in Kerala : Understanding the Crisis
It is high time for an open conversation about the mental health of Malayali men to emerge in this context. If suicide rates are this high, imagine how prevalent suicidal tendencies and attempts might be. This calls for collective introspection and action to address the mental health challenges faced by men in Kerala.
The reasons behind the high suicide rates among men, as well as the ways to overcome suicide, must be thoroughly analyzed and understood. Adequate mental health support is essential in addressing this issue. A collective effort involving society, families, and professional help is crucial to tackling this problem effectively. Suicide among men in Kerala
- The rising suicide rates among men in Kerala are a serious concern, and the reasons behind this are a tangled mix of societal pressures, emotional struggles, and systemic gaps. Based on statistics from the State Crime Records Bureau, a study conducted by the Kozhikode-based Thanal Suicide Prevention Center found that the suicide rate among married men is notably higher. This study analyzed data from 2012 to 2023.
- In 2012, 8,490 suicides were reported, whereas in 2023, the number increased to 10,972.
- Additionally, the study indicates that 56% of the men are over the age of 45, and 76.6% of them are married. These statistics must be taken very seriously. When a significant number of men are committing suicide in Kerala, and the proportion of married men among them is steadily increasing, it highlights the critical role played by both society and family.
- Factors such as familial responsibilities, domestic issues, financial crises, marital conflicts, societal pressures, and the struggles of living up to societal norms are all contributing to this trend. The rise in male suicides from 8,490 to 10,972 underscores the urgent need for Kerala to reflect deeply on the importance of suicide prevention and mental health initiatives.
- Therefore, suicide is a highly sensitive area that requires careful attention, and men as a group fall within this critical focus. Men’s mental health Kerala
In today’s Kerala, the necessity for suicide prevention counseling and therapy has become increasingly evident. It is essential to utilize these resources effectively to improve mental health.
Suicide Prevention Through Online Therapy in Kerala
1. Family Conflicts and Marital Pressures
A striking 76% of male suicide victims in Kerala are married, which flips the narrative seen in Western countries, where singles are more vulnerable. The emotional and financial responsibilities tied to marriage—like being the “head of the family”—create immense pressure. Strained relationships, unresolved conflicts, and the burden of societal expectations leave men feeling isolated and overwhelmed.
2. Economic Stress and Financial Instability
Financial hardships play a huge role, with daily wage earners and unemployed individuals being particularly vulnerable. Even employed men aren’t immune, as job insecurity, debt, and lack of work-life balance pile on stress. Economic downturns, failed businesses, and the impact of COVID-19 have only worsened the situation.
3. Mental Health Challenges and Substance Abuse
Depression, anxiety, alcoholism, and drug addiction are common contributors. Many men suppress emotional struggles due to stigma, avoiding professional help until it’s too late. Substance abuse often becomes a coping mechanism but ends up exacerbating mental health issues.
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4. Societal and Cultural Norms
Kerala’s societal conditioning teaches men to be “strong” and “self-reliant,” which discourages them from expressing vulnerability or seeking support. This emotional suppression builds up silently and tragically, leading to feelings of hopelessness and isolation.
5. Aging and Isolation
Men over 45 years old account for a significant portion of suicides. This demographic often faces declining physical health, emotional withdrawal, and loneliness, especially in Kerala’s transitioning super-aged society. Changing family dynamics, such as migration and weakened intergenerational bonds, amplify the issue.
6. Media Influence and Social Pressures
Unrealistic portrayals of life, coupled with the growing influence of Western culture and social media, fuel feelings of inadequacy and disillusionment. Men struggling with personal or financial failures may feel cornered, with no visible way out.
Kerala’s rising male suicide rates aren’t just numbers—they’re a wake-up call for urgent intervention at personal, societal, and policy levels.
How Malayalam Counselling Sessions Support Men’s Mental Health
Signs of suicidal tendencies in a person, as mentioned earlier, often include subtle or direct indications that they are considering suicide. If someone has been showing changes in their behavior or personality over the past few days, or appears to be troubled by some kind of distress, initiating an open conversation with them is the best step you can take.
Along with this, ensuring they receive the necessary professional help, such as Malayalam counseling or psychological support, is essential for improving their mental health and addressing the underlying issues effectively.
- A recent suicide attempt.
- Frequently saying things like, “I’m tired of life,” “Why live like this?” or “It’s better to just die.”
- Complaining about being troubled by suicidal thoughts.
- Engaging in risky or unnecessary activities with a high likelihood of death, deliberately or knowingly.
- Feelings of Hopelessness: Expressing feelings of despair, worthlessness, or believing there’s no way to improve their situation.
- Withdrawal from Others: Isolating themselves from family, friends, and social activities they once enjoyed.
- Increased Substance Use: Turning to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with emotional pain.
- Loss of Interest: Losing interest in hobbies, work, or activities they previously cared about.
- Expressing Guilt or Shame: Constantly voicing feelings of guilt, shame, or self-hatred.
- Recent Trauma or Loss: Experiencing a significant life event, such as the death of a loved one, a breakup, or job loss, which may trigger suicidal thoughts.
Addressing the rising suicide rates among men in Kerala requires a multi-dimensional approach that focuses on emotional well-being, societal change, and systemic solutions. Here are some key strategies to help men overcome suicidal tendencies:
1. Encourage Open Conversations About Mental Health
One of the most effective ways to tackle suicide is to break the stigma around mental health. Men are often conditioned to suppress their emotions and avoid seeking help, which exacerbates their struggles. Creating safe spaces for men to openly discuss their feelings, whether within families, workplaces, or communities, can significantly reduce emotional isolation.
2. Promote Accessible Mental Health Services
Kerala needs more accessible mental health services, especially in rural areas. Establishing counseling centers, helplines, and online platforms can provide men with immediate professional support. Additionally, integrating mental health awareness programs into workplaces and educational institutions can help men recognize when they need help and seek it earlier.
3. Strengthen Family and Social Support Systems
Family and social networks play a crucial role in emotional well-being. Encouraging stronger family bonds and community connections can help men feel supported during difficult times. Initiatives like peer support groups and community mental health programs can build a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation.
4. Address Financial and Employment Stress
Economic instability is a significant contributor to suicide among men. Providing financial counseling, debt management programs, and job security initiatives can help alleviate stress. Skills training and entrepreneurship support can also empower men to create stable livelihoods, reducing feelings of hopelessness.
5. Target Substance Abuse Prevention
Substance abuse often worsens mental health issues and increases the risk of suicide. Kerala needs targeted campaigns to address alcoholism and drug addiction, offering rehabilitation programs and community-based support systems to help men break free from these destructive habits.
6. Focus on Emotional and Relationship Counseling
Marital and relationship conflicts are a major factor in male suicides in Kerala. Offering relationship counseling and mediation services can help men navigate challenges in their personal lives. Encouraging couples to seek help early can prevent issues from escalating into crises.
7. Raise Awareness Through Media and Education
Public campaigns that challenge toxic masculinity and promote emotional vulnerability can change societal attitudes over time. Using media platforms to share stories of men who overcame struggles can inspire others to seek help. Schools and colleges can also include mental health education to equip young men with coping skills.
Overcoming suicide among men in Kerala requires collective efforts from individuals, families, communities, and policymakers. By fostering a culture of empathy, improving access to mental health services, and addressing systemic challenges, Kerala can create an environment where men feel supported, valued, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges.
How Malayalam counselling sessions can help: mental health support
Malayalam counseling sessions in kerala can play a pivotal role in addressing the rising suicide rates among men in Kerala by providing culturally sensitive and accessible mental health support. These sessions offer a safe space for men to express their emotions, address their struggles, and find solutions tailored to their unique circumstances. Here’s how Malayalam counseling can help:
1. Breaking the Silence Around Mental Health
In Kerala’s cultural context, men are often expected to suppress their emotions and “stay strong,” which leads to unaddressed mental health issues. Counseling sessions conducted in Malayalam can help break this barrier by making therapy feel relatable and approachable. Speaking in their native language allows men to express themselves more freely and authentically, fostering trust and openness.
2. Addressing Emotional Isolation
Many men in Kerala face emotional isolation due to societal expectations that discourage vulnerability. Malayalam counseling sessions provide a platform for men to share their struggles without fear of judgment. Counselors can help them recognize and validate their feelings, reducing feelings of loneliness and hopelessness.
3. Tackling Financial and Work-Related Stress
Economic pressures, unemployment, and job insecurity are significant contributors to male suicides in Kerala. Counselors can help men develop strategies to manage stress, navigate financial challenges, and rebuild confidence. They can also guide individuals toward resources like job training programs or financial planning services, empowering men to find stability.
4. Resolving Family and Relationship Conflicts
Marital issues and family conflicts are among the leading Causes of male suicides in Kerala. Malayalam counseling sessions can mediate these conflicts by fostering healthy communication and understanding within families. By addressing the root causes of relational tension, counselors can help men rebuild supportive relationships.
5. Providing Crisis Intervention
For men experiencing acute distress or suicidal thoughts, Malayalam-speaking counselors can offer immediate support to de-escalate the situation. Crisis intervention focuses on providing a safe and empathetic space where men can express their fears and frustrations. Counselors can also help individuals develop coping mechanisms and connect them to additional resources for long-term support.
6. Promoting Emotional Resilience
Malayalam counseling sessions focus not only on addressing immediate challenges but also on building emotional resilience for the future. Men can learn stress management techniques, problem-solving skills, and ways to maintain mental well-being even in the face of adversity. This proactive approach helps reduce the risk of recurring mental health struggles.
Malayalam counseling sessions are uniquely positioned to address Kerala’s rising male suicide rates by providing culturally attuned, empathetic, and accessible mental health support. By fostering emotional expression, resolving conflicts, and empowering individuals with coping strategies, these sessions can save lives and create a healthier, more supportive environment for men in Kerala.
When men become individuals unable to openly cry or share their problems due to societal constructs, it is important to reflect on the causes of their mental struggles. Through collective efforts, it is possible to reduce the rising suicide rates among men in Kerala and improve their mental health.
Therefore, it is crucial to provide them with proper support and the necessary mental health assistance. If you are someone experiencing significant mental distress, you should consider seeking Malayalam counseling sessions and therapy as needed. Remember, you are an important individual in society and deserve to be happy and fulfilled.
Online therapy for men in Kerala is not just about treating mental health issues—it’s about saving lives. With professional Malayalam counselling, men can access support anytime, anywhere. If you or someone you know is struggling, book an Oppam session today and take the first step toward healing..
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