Farmer Suicide Contagion in India

Health (mental and physical) concerns are the leading causes of suicides in India, accounting for over 20% of all suicides. Bankruptcy and indebtedness account for less than 5% of all suicides. Housewives comprise the largest share of suicides (18%); while farmers comprise 11%. Suicides among most demographics are declining over time and farmer suicides are declining the fastest. Suicide ‘contagion’ can occur if suicides are overly dramatized and/or played up. Research shows that responsible media coverage of suicides can play an important role in curbing suicide contagions.