Crisis
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The Indian subcontinent comprises eight countries (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bhutan, and the Maldives) and a collective population of more than 1.3 billion people. 10% of the world's suicides (more than 100,000 people) take place in just three of these countries, viz. India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. There is very little information on suicides from the other four countries. ⋯ There is need for more and better information regarding suicide in the countries of the Indian subcontinent. In particular, studies must address culture-specific risk factors associated with suicide in these countries. The prevention of this important public health problem in an area of the world with myriad socio-economic problems, meager resources, and stigmatization of mental illness poses a formidable challenge to mental health professionals, policy makers, and governments of these countries.
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As we approach the new millennium a new dimension in interactive communications has arrived. The internet is one such medium, and while it remains a relatively new form of information sharing, it has not escaped the attention of vulnerable young people. ⋯ Issues to do with modeling, ambivalence, group death wishes, research, and ethics are discussed. Finally, some recommendations are made for further studies.