Pune: Surge In High-Risk Suicide Cases Among Youth, Reveals Report
Pune: Surge In High-Risk Suicide Cases Among Youth, Reveals Report
Pune, September 09, 2025: Pune, home to one of India’s largest student populations, is facing a growing mental health crisis. Data from Mpower’s Centre located at Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital shows a over 100% rise in high-risk suicide cases between 2022 and 2025 — from 4 in 2022 to 34 already this year. The most vulnerable group is young women aged 21–30, followed by those aged 31–40 and 18–20. The leading triggers include depression, anxiety, personality vulnerabilities, and relationship challenges, further compounded by health and financial stressors.
In response, Mpower, an initiative of the Aditya Birla Education Trust, marked World Suicide Prevention Day by mobilising students across colleges through its COPE (Counselling and Outreach for Peer Empowerment) Clubs. On-ground activities such as the Jenga of Hope, Hope Hunt, and open-mic sessions turned the serious conversation around suicide prevention into creative, youth-led engagement. Beyond awareness, COPE trains 25 students per college as Youth Mental Health First Aiders, preparing them to recognise early warning signs, provide peer support, and connect fellow students to professional care.
The power of early intervention is evident in the stories of recovery. A 21-year-old Pune student struggling with depression, gaming addiction, and suicidal ideation sought help at Mpower. With psychotherapy focused on confidence-building and psychiatric support, he showed marked improvement in two months — suicidal thoughts subsided, academic engagement resumed, and self-esteem improved.
Parveen Shaikh, President, Mpower, added: “Suicide prevention cannot be limited to awareness campaigns. It requires consistent, community-driven support systems backed by professional care. By working with families, peers, and colleges, we aim to ensure that no young person feels isolated in their struggle.”
Mpower’s suicide prevention protocols include a 24×7 helpline (1800-1208-20050), collaborative safety planning with families, psychiatric referrals or hospitalisation where necessary, and ongoing wellness checks to ensure continuity of care.
