Why Do People Consider Ending Their Own Lives?

This article discusses suicide from an educational and mental health perspective. Some readers or viewers may find the topic emotionally heavy. If you are struggling or know someone who is, please consider reaching out for support. You don’t have to face it alone.

If you are in Malaysia and need immediate support, you may contact Talian HEAL (15555), Befrienders, or local emergency services.

Across cultures and belief systems, ending one’s own life has long been viewed as a serious and troubling act. In many religions, it is considered a major moral wrongdoing. Historically, societies responded to such acts with punishment, shame, or exclusion rather than understanding.

In the 19th century, French psychiatrists such as Esquirol and Pinel introduced a different perspective. They viewed suicidal behaviour not as moral failure, but as a symptom of psychological distress or mental illness. This shift marked the beginning of a more compassionate, medical understanding of the issue.

So, what leads a person to this point?

Research shows that emotional suffering and psychological pressure are common contributors, but they are not the only factors. Some individuals who appear to live stable, “normal” lives may still experience inner turmoil that remains unseen by others.

During the early 20th century in Russia, individuals who attempted to end their lives were heavily stigmatised. They were labelled as mentally unstable and subjected to strict control, including limitations on employment and daily activities. Although the intention was prevention, the approach was harsh and often dehumanising. This system lasted until the early 1970s.

As suicide rates rose in countries such as Russia and Sri Lanka, concern grew. In Moscow, one of the first psychological counselling centres was established in the mid-1970s, focusing particularly on adolescents - a group increasingly affected. Psychiatrists and psychologists worked together, signalling a shift toward prevention and emotional support.

By the late 1980s, deeper contributing factors were identified. Alcohol abuse was widespread and often linked to loss of emotional control, but experts agreed that most suicide cases were not impulsive. They were often the result of prolonged inner struggle and careful contemplation.

Certain communities were found to have higher vulnerability. For example, Finno-Ugric populations in Hungary showed exceptionally high suicide rates. Cultural sensitivity to emotional stress and social pressure appeared to play a role. Similar patterns were observed among Finno-Ugric communities in Udmurtia, Russia, despite differences in lifestyle.

Among adolescents, studies suggest that suicidal thoughts often emerge during the early stages of emotional maturity. Feelings of failure, helplessness, intense emotional pressure, and identity confusion are common at this age. Bullying at school and substance abuse were identified as major contributing stressors.

In Russia, another high-risk group consists of individuals aged 40 to 50. For many, loneliness, difficulty accepting ageing, and struggles adapting to rapid social change contribute to emotional isolation.

Today, many countries have established counselling hotlines and mental health services aimed at early intervention. These services exist to offer support, understanding, and a listening ear. However, their effectiveness depends on one crucial step - the willingness of individuals to reach out.

Ending one’s life is not a solution, but often a signal of pain that has gone unheard for too long.