More than 300 people attempt suicide every month in Coimbatore, says Dr M Helena Selvakodi, director and founder of the city-based Anandham Mind Care Foundation. “And most are under the age of 40.”As per data from the crime records bureau of Coimbatore city police, the first four months of this year recorded more than 100 suicides, a significant spike compared to the same period last year. Police say the daily toll of one to two suicides in this demographic outpaces fatalities caused by road accidents in the same age group.On May 7, an 18-year-old college student died by suicide in Gandhi Maa Nagar near Peelamedu after being reprimanded by her mother for excessive mobile phone usage.Police data shows 35% of those who attempted suicide faced family disputes, 25% suffered from chronic health issues, while the remaining struggled with financial distress, including loss of livelihood or inability to repay loans.‘Vidiyal’, a dedicated helpline launched by the police department in 2021, was recently abandoned after failing to yield expected results.“Vulnerability stems from a mix of genetic factors, physical ailments and neurotransmitter imbalances in the brain,” says Dr Helena. “These biological triggers are sometimes exacerbated by external stressors such as dysfunctional family environments, sibling rivalry, adolescent identity confusion, peer pressure, cyberbullying and alcohol dependence.If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately. Tamil Nadu govt’s 24/7 mental health helpline can be reached at 14416.Family, financial stress among causes
- Coimbatore is witnessing a 40% year-on-year rise in suicide attempts
- Mental health experts cite family stress, emotional isolation, financial pressure, addiction, cyberbullying and poor coping mechanisms as major triggers
- In 2025, 229 people under 40 died by suicide in Coimbatore district
