Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian society. (Answer in 150 words)

Suicide among young women reflects interacting psychological, social, economic and institutional vulnerabilities; it must never be reduced to individual weakness.

Contributing factors

• Patriarchal control, early marriage, domestic violence, dowry pressure and restrictions on mobility erode autonomy.
• Educational and employment competition, relationship conflict, sexual violence and online harassment create acute stress.
• Depression, anxiety and trauma often remain untreated because of stigma, poor recognition and inadequate counselling.
• Economic dependence, unsafe homes and weak support systems limit escape from crisis.
• Easy access to lethal means and sensational reporting can increase risk.

Measures

Gender-sensitive mental-health services, helplines, school counselling, violence prevention, safe shelters, responsible media and community gatekeepers are required.

Indian society, women, mental health, suicide