THERE have been several incidents of suicidesin our societyin the recent past, especially by young people. According to a report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), 77 per cent of suicides globally take place in lowand middle-income countries (LMICs).

The Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning has also reported that suicide is now the fourth most common cause of death in Pakistan, which is concerning, expecially becasue 60pc of the country`s population is aged under 30 years. With rising cases and increasing media coverage, we must ask why so many young people are choosing such an ill-advised path.It is more common now than ever for a young adult, a teenager, or even a child to commit suicide. Many students see no way out but to take their own lives as a result of a variety of situations involving academic pressure, stress from family conflicts, peer pressure, poverty, substance abuse, and lack of employment opportunities.

Pakistan`s struggling economy offers little hope to those in poverty. Employment opportunities are mostly given to those having wealth and connections with influential people, leaving the underprivileged helpless.

Many people turn to drugs and crime, which are two of the leading factors behind the worsening mental health spectrum.

As a nation, we should focus our energies on the youth, on the future of Pakistan.

The stigma of therapy should be minimised so that people may receive help when needed.

Proper rehabilitation centres should be established, and a functional helpline should be set up for suicide prevention.

Ignoring the crisis is no longer an option.

It is time for concrete action to protect Pakistan`s youth against this malaise.

BerhaIrfan Rawalpindi