Why Are Suicide Rates in Bangladesh Surging from 2020 to 2024?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A troubling increase in suicide rates in Bangladesh has emerged, averaging 40 deaths daily. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for coordinated national efforts to address mental health issues and implement effective prevention strategies. Join us as we delve into the statistics, expert insights, and the social implications of this crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Bangladesh experiences an alarming average of 40 suicides daily.
- Jashore district has the highest recorded suicide rates.
- There is a significant gap in effective suicide prevention measures.
- Public health experts stress the need for coordinated action across multiple sectors.
- Hanging is the most common method of suicide in the country.
Dhaka, Dec 23 (NationPress) A concerning trend has emerged in Bangladesh, with a dramatic increase in suicide incidents reported. Statistics indicate an alarming average of 40 individuals taking their own lives each day nationwide, as highlighted by local media on Tuesday.
This critical information was disclosed by Md Ashraful Islam, the Additional Inspector General of Bangladesh Police (Crime), during an event at the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research (ICDDRB) in Dhaka.
Notably, the district of Jashore has recorded the highest incidence of suicide cases in Bangladesh.
The event, co-hosted by ICDDRB, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), and the World Health Organisation (WHO), centered on deliberations regarding the draft of the Bangladesh National Suicide Prevention Plan, as reported by the prominent Bangladeshi daily Prothom Alo.
Despite increasing dialogue on this pressing issue, several experts and speakers at the event noted a significant gap in effective prevention measures in the country, relying heavily on WHO data for suicide statistics.
Mahbubur Rahman, Director of the National Institute of Mental Health, stressed that successful suicide prevention cannot be achieved through isolated actions.
He called for a collaborative approach involving multiple ministries, including health, agriculture, home affairs, education, religious affairs, and information, alongside other stakeholders.
According to police data, the suicide figures in Bangladesh surpass WHO estimates, as law enforcement agencies document suicide-related unnatural deaths.
Additional Inspector General Ashraful Islam presented nationwide statistics on “suicide-related unnatural deaths” covering the period from 2020 to 2024, including data from January to October of this year.
The statistics reveal that 73,597 people have died by suicide in Bangladesh from 2020 to 2024, averaging 14,719 suicides annually, or approximately 40 suicides per day.
In the current year alone, 12,335 suicide cases have been documented from January to October, with a daily average of about 41 cases, slightly exceeding previous years.
Records categorize suicide methods into various types, with hanging being the most prevalent, followed by poisoning. Among Bangladesh’s 64 districts, Jashore leads with 1,454 cases of suicide-related unnatural deaths recorded between October 2022 and October 2025. The Dhaka district follows closely with 1,402 cases, while Cumilla reported 1,288 cases during the same timeframe.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the gravity of the suicide crisis in Bangladesh. The rising statistics are alarming and warrant immediate, coordinated action from both government and societal stakeholders. We must advocate for a comprehensive mental health strategy that transcends isolated efforts and fosters collaboration across various sectors.
NationPress
23/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average number of suicides in Bangladesh?
The average number of suicides in Bangladesh is approximately 40 cases per day, according to recent data.
Which district has the highest suicide rate in Bangladesh?
The district of Jashore has recorded the highest number of suicide cases in Bangladesh.
What are the common methods of suicide reported?
Common methods of suicide in Bangladesh include hanging, poisoning, and self-immolation.
What organizations are involved in suicide prevention efforts?
Organizations such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), and ICDDR are involved in suicide prevention discussions and initiatives.
What is the need for a national suicide prevention plan?
A national suicide prevention plan is necessary to coordinate efforts across various ministries and stakeholders to effectively address and reduce suicide rates.
