Faisalabad in Manchester, Pakistan has witnessed an increase in suicide attempts this year, with 250 people attempting suicide and 25 people dying of self-inflicted wounds, including several women.
The latest news highlights the tragic incident of police officer Zafar Abbas, who died two days ago after suffering severe mental stress.
Abbas, who has been on medical leave for the past month, reportedly used a nasal spray to end his suffering.
His death reveals the enormous psychological burden on law enforcement officers. “Our job is really stressful,” said RPO Dr Abid, adding that better mental health support was needed in the force.
Medical experts warn that depression is a major factor in these suicides. Famous psychiatrist Dr. Salma said it is important to recognize the symptoms of mental illness.
“If people eat, drink, sleep and their daily activities are disturbed, they should seek mental help,” he said.
Statistics paint a grim picture. In just four and a half months, 250 men and women tried to commit suicide, an increase of 15 percent from last year.
