Alarming rise in student suicides Over 310 deaths in 2024
Staff Reporter :
A total of 310 suicides were reported across various age groups, with an alarming 65.7% of these deaths occurring among adolescents aged 13-19, according to a report by Aachol Foundation revealed on Saturday.
The report was unveiled at a press conference organized by the Anchal Foundation today, experts gathered to discuss these concerning statistics.
The event, titled “Student Suicides in 2024: A Collective Effort is Urgent,” featured key speakers including psychiatrist Syedul Islam Syed from Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dr. Md. Jamal Uddin, Professor of Statistics at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Barrister Nofal Jamir, a lawyer and author, and Tansen Rose, Founder and President of the Aachol Foundation.
According to the report, this age group, often marked by the onset of puberty, recorded the highest suicide rates, underscoring a growing crisis that demands urgent intervention.
The report highlights the pressing need for mental health awareness and support, especially for young students who are most vulnerable to the pressures of academic and personal challenges.
During the conference, the experts shed light on the factors contributing to the surge in suicides among students, including academic pressure, romantic relationship struggles, and emotional despair.
According to the findings, female students are particularly at risk, with 61% of the suicides being women. The tragic loss of lives due to mental health issues was compounded by a lack of sufficient support systems, both within families and educational institutions.
Tansen Rose, President of the Aachol Foundation, urged for immediate action from the government, schools, and society to address this crisis. “The rising number of student suicides is a silent epidemic. We must work together to create supportive environments for our youth and ensure mental health resources are readily available,” he stated.
Dr. Jamal Uddin added that educational institutions need to integrate mental health education and counseling services into their curricula. Barrister Nofal Jamir called for resilience training to be made mandatory in secondary schools, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness for the younger generation.
The experts concluded that the time for collective action is now, urging stakeholders across society to prioritize student mental health and provide the necessary support to prevent further tragedies. The Aachol Foundation pledged to continue its advocacy and support in addressing this growing issue.
