By Bishnu Luitel, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Suicide is a serious consequence of mental health issues that leads a person to end their life. Mental problems can arise from various causes such as despair, failure, financial troubles, family discord, generational gaps, anger issues, or ego.

Among resettled Nepali-speaking Bhutanese, the suicide rate is alarmingly high. Bhutanese refugees expelled in the 1990s have faced—and continue to face—numerous mental health challenges. Recalling how the then King of Bhutan rendered around 125,000 Bhutanese citizens stateless is heartbreaking, even for the strongest individuals.

In a homogenous community, lack of awareness about the importance of dignity, independence, and diversity, and the confusion surrounding these, naturally contributed to the mental burden of Bhutanese expelled from Bhutan. The inhumane forced expulsion of Nepali-speaking people from Bhutan led to severely painful experiences. Unable to return, they were scattered across various countries under resettlement programs.

This process also fragmented families, causing emotional distress. Adjusting to local community’s post-resettlement proved equally difficult. The struggle of having no land to stand on and feeling unrecognized as a human being is something anyone can imagine. Thus, it’s natural that adapting to a new environment and assimilating with other groups took time.

Cultural beliefs and excessive optimism can influence suicide. Even if a person is not socially accepted, they may be neglected by their family or society. This neglect—when unexpected—can increase emotional and mental strain. In such cases, one must never isolate themselves from family or society.

Resettled Bhutanese face challenges like insufficient training in freedom and language difficulties. They have endured hardship for extended periods—and some still do. Legal and financial challenges have also worsened their mental health conditions. Suicide is a complex and grave issue, and its causes vary from person to person. Some of the causes include:

1. Physical illness, depression, indecisiveness, and other mental disorders can increase the risk of suicide.
2. Alcohol or substance abuse increases the risk, especially when combined with depression or other mental health issues.
3. Traumatic events, humiliation, violence, or the death of a loved one can also heighten suicide risk. Long-term stress and hopelessness are also contributing factors.
4. Access to firearms, drugs, or other lethal toolsincreases the likelihood of suicide.
5. Addiction, theft, gambling, robbery, or extramarital affairs can also be underlying causes.

Suicide is not a solution to problems. Life inherently involves facing challenges—it’s an inevitable part of living. Life is a mix of happiness and sorrow. We should not accept problems as fate. We can solve them, and we can also change our perspectives and lifestyles.

If suicide were a solution, it would destroy everything valuable in life—our family, friends, community, and civilization. It leaves problems unsolved and worsens the situation.

Cultural beliefs and idealistic expectations can influence suicide. Even if someone does not achieve the socially expected status, family or societal neglect can intensify emotional suffering. If someone distances themselves from loved ones due to this, it is tragic. That’s why solving problems and striving for success in life is the right approach. We should seek help and work toward resolution through support.

Family and society play a crucial role in suicide prevention. Here are ways they can help:

1. Many individuals hint at suicidal thoughts. If they open up to family, society, or a trusted friend, it can provide safety and support.
2. If symptoms of suicidal thinking are visible, families and society must pay close attention—even to the smallest signs. Ending social discrimination is essential.
3. Families and communities can reduce and prevent suicide by investing time, attention, and care.
4. Conversations about suicide can affect not just the person involved but others around them. Therefore, families and society must use respectful language and behavior, which helps reduce suicide risk.

Social support is crucial in preventing suicide. When communities foster a supportive environment, ensure social security, and promote goodwill, suicide can be prevented.

Mental illness and shame related to suicide are closely linked. Denying one’s struggles and avoiding openness are serious issues. Therefore, families and communities must provide intentional support and attention. Raising awareness about mental health and shame is essential. Social organizations and community leaders must develop programs to publicly address these issues, promote open dialogue, and offer support to those in need.

Among Bhutanese refugees, resettled Bhutanese, and other communities, it is vital to increase awareness of mental health and emotional well-being. Community leaders, religious figures, counselors, and mental health professionals should all be involved. Encouraging open and honest dialogue across all layers of society—especially within families and communities—can contribute greatly to reducing suicide. This understanding must spread throughout society.

Material comforts alone are not enough. While they may offer momentary happiness, they do not provide long-term peace. Otherwise, why would tragic suicides occur even in developed countries? Without peace of mind, people are forced to face devastating consequences. Families and society must act consciously and proactively to reduce suicide—it is the need of the hour.

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