‘Anti-Suicide Device’ On Ceiling Fans To Stop Student Deaths

Relevance: GS 2 - Issues relating to the development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health; Government policies

(Source: The Hindu, 08/19/23)

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Why in the news?

• Recently, authorities in Kota, a prominent coaching hub for competitive exams, have taken an anti-suicide measure to prevent suicides by installing a spring device on ceiling fans in hostels.
  • The device activates if an object weighing more than 20 kilos is hung from the fan and triggers a siren while expanding the spring, preventing suicides by hanging.
• In 2023, there have been 20 reported suicides, compared to 15 in 2022.

Reasons for suicides in Kota

• Mental stress and the pressure of studies.
• Lack of confidence due to low scores,
• High expectations from parents,
• Financial difficulties, blackmail, and love affairs

Measures to be taken

• Periodic psychological tests should be conducted on students to determine if they are at risk.
• Discouraging the glorification of toppers,
• Assess children’s aptitude: The parents should assess their children's aptitude through professional help before deciding whether to send them to Kota to prepare for the highly competitive JEE and NEET exams.
• Creating avenues for students to discuss their feelings openly, seek support, and obtain professional help through counseling centers.
• Awareness: It encourages universities to educate students, teachers, and parents about mental health, stress management, and seeking mental health support.
• De-stigmatize students who seek mental health support.

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