According to the NCRB, World Suicide Prevention Date: More than 1,000 people commit suicide in India each year. There are a variety of causes of suicide, including professional/career issues, isolation, abuse, violence, family problems, and mental disorders.
World Suicide Prevention Days are observed worldwide each year on September 10th to raise awareness around the world that suicide can be prevented. The theme of World Suicide Prevention Day is to “change the story of suicide.” The day aims to focus attention on issues, reduce stigma, raise awareness among organizations, governments, and the public, and give a singular message that suicide is preventable.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), suicide is a major public health challenge, advocating for the lives of more than 720,000 people worldwide each year. According to WHO estimates, every 40 seconds, one person commits suicide and dies worldwide. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people around the world. In India, the suicide rate has increased from 9.9 per population in 2017 to 12.4 per 1 million rupees in 2022, according to the latest report from the National Crime Records Bureau. Young adults ages 18-30 accounted for 35% of all suicides in 2022.
Can technology prevent suicide?
Yes, technology can play an important role in suicide prevention, but it is most effective when used to support friends, family, counselors and healthcare professionals. With advances in science and technology, there are many apps and chatbots today, providing anonymous support around the clock and providing free consultations to those who may be hesitant to contact friends and professionals. Artificial intelligence can also analyze search trends and social media posts. Wearable technologies like smartwatches can monitor changes in heart rate or sleep patterns that can indicate mental distress.
But while technology offers rapid support and early warning, it cannot replace professional care, empathy and human connection.
Helplines, apps, and AI to prevent suicide
Many people have the idea of suicide when he/she is experiencing an emotional crisis. Sometimes people feel hopeless and get support from people who care, making a huge difference and saving many lives. In India, thousands of calls are made daily to 24-hour hotlines like Aasra and Snehi, with volunteers and certified counselors, providing free, anonymous support.
Additionally, chatbots and mental health apps provide 24-hour support. AI-powered chat interfaces are used on platforms like Wysa and YourDost to help users who are experiencing anxiety, loneliness, or suicide thoughts. Chatbots always provide immediate response and help prevent the idea of suicide.
The major platforms include Myshakti, India's first sovereign-generating AI chatbot, created for Indian data, and WYSA, which offers free self-help tools. AI-driven support is also provided by other platforms such as Healo and Sukoon, some linking to human therapists for a hybrid approach. AI is used on social media sites such as Facebook and Instagram to search for warning indicator posts and comments. This allows you to notify trained moderators and notify users directly to the Crisis Helpline.
India's 24×7 Crisis Helpline
- call
- Ursala
- Vandrevala Foundation Helpline
- Sunehi
- A voice that cares
- Building trust
Suicide Prevention App in India
- Samhsa – Suicide Safe
- Better Help
- Virtual Hope Box
- Stay alive
- wysa
- Your dost
- I'm calmed down
Also Read: World Suicide Prevention Day: From Policy to People, Here's how some countries are tackling the crisis
Also Read: World Suicide Prevention Day 2025: Healthy Coping Mechanisms for Young Adults Fighting Stress
