In a positive development for mental health advocacy, the number of suicide cases in Jamshedpur has shown a notable fall over previous years, as reported by Jeevan, a city-based suicide prevention center. This downward trend marks a significant shift from past statistics, signaling increased awareness and access to mental health support within the community.

According to Jeevan's data, suicide rates have gradually decreased from 2021 to 2024. In the case of students, the number of reported male and female suicides has dropped from 23 cases (7 males and 16 females) in 2021 to just 9 cases (4 males and 5 females) in the first eight months of 2024. A similar trend is observed in general suicides, with the overall number of male and female cases reducing from 255 in 2021 (178 males and 77 females) to 129 in 2024 (93 males and 36 females) as of August.

Jeevan’s director, Dr Jeoraj Jain, shared these insights with the media while addressing the ongoing efforts to curb suicide cases in the city. Jain emphasized that not only have suicide cases diminished, but the number of individuals seeking help from the center has also seen a steady rise. "In 2022-23, 748 people reached out to our helpline for assistance. This number is expected to cross 1000 in 2023-24, as awareness of our services continues to spread. It is encouraging to see more individuals recognizing the importance of seeking support during their difficult times," Jain stated.

Dr. Jain highlighted that in 2024, Jamshedpur’s suicide rate has dropped to 10 per lakh, compared to the national average of 11-12 per lakh. “Our goal is to bring this figure down to 5 per lakh in the near future,” he said. Despite this progress, Jamshedpur’s suicide rate remains the highest in the Bihar-Jharkhand region.

When asked about government support, Dr. Jain acknowledged that Jeevan operates primarily on the dedication of its volunteers, as well as support from Tata Steel and its associated company, JAMIPOL. He also pointed out the challenges faced by the state’s suicide helpline, which has been largely non-functional, leaving Jeevan to shoulder the responsibility of providing essential services.

Jeevan’s impact, however, extends beyond Jharkhand. In response to a request from the Chhattisgarh government, Jeevan’s volunteers have also trained local teams in suicide prevention measures. Over the years, the center has successfully saved more than 700 lives since its inception in 2006. In 2022, Jeevan received 750 calls from individuals contemplating suicide, and by 2023, this number had risen to 911. Despite limited resources, the center continues to aim for greater outreach and support.

In response to the rising demand for their services, Jeevan plans to expand its operations to provide round-the-clock support. Currently, the organization’s volunteers work tirelessly, but resource limitations, including space constraints, prevent them from operating 24/7. “We’ve placed sign boards outside schools and colleges, encouraging students to reach out when they need help,” said Dr. Jain. The organization also conducts community counseling sessions aimed at educating the general public on how to handle mental health crises.