Alarming Mental Health: 1 in 100 Nepalis Admits Suicide Attempt, 6 Struggle with Suicidal Thoughts

In a comprehensive National Mental Health Survey conducted in Nepal between 2019 and 2020, alarming statistics regarding the mental well-being of the adult population have come to light. The survey, aimed at understanding the prevalence of mental health issues, has revealed a distressing 6.5% of adults reporting experiencing suicidal thoughts.

The survey, spanning a broad demographic spectrum, found that a significant proportion of Nepal’s adult population is grappling with the burden of suicidal thoughts. This revelation sheds light on the depth of mental health challenges faced by individuals in the country.

Further deepening the concern, the survey reports a prevalence of 1.1% for lifetime suicidal attempts among adults. This underscores the urgent need for mental health interventions and support systems to address the complexities individuals face throughout their lives. The rate has gone up higher after the pandemic.

Economic collapse, job loss and slashed income due to the pandemic as well as increased domestic and sexual violence and added workload during the lockdowns have all acted as contributing factors. In addition, those afflicted do not have normal social interactions that used to be a safety valve during more normal times.

There has been a sharp rise in suicides in Nepal since the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020 and subsequent lockdowns. Nepal Police data shows that in the last 12 months, there have been 7,141 reported deaths due to suicides nationwide, up from 6,252 the year before.

The findings underscore the critical need for mental health awareness, destigmatization, and accessible support services. The prevalence of suicidal thoughts and attempts emphasizes the urgency of implementing strategies that address the root causes of mental health challenges and provide avenues for assistance.

Suicide prevention strategies in Nepal should account for the lack of awareness about suicide risk among family members and early age of suicide completion, especially in rural and female populations. Given the low rates of ideation disclosure to friends and family, educating the general public about other signs of suicide may help prevention efforts in Nepal.

Do not shy away from seeking help. If you, or anyone you know, would like to speak to a trained mental health professional, please contact:

TUTH Suicide Hotline: 9840021600

Transcultural Psychosocial Organisation-Nepal Crisis Hotline: 1660 0102005

Mental Health Helpline Nepal: 1660 0133666

Centre for Mental Health and Counselling Nepal Toll-free: 16600185080, Hotline: 1145

Koshish Toll-free helpline: 166001-22322 (Bagmati Province)

Patan Hospital Helpline: 9813476123

National Suicide Prevention helpline operated by Mental Hospital Lagankhel and TPO: 1166