The 2017 Statistical Bulletin of the World Health Organization (WHO) lists Guyana as the nation with the largest suicide rate in the world. But particularly disturbing is the fact that this scourge is prevalent mostly within the Indo-Guyanese community.
In fact, suicide rates are present in every Region of Guyana, with Region Six (Corentyne, Berbice)
having the highest rate, and Region Two coming second, followed by Region Three. These are all regions which are predominantly populated by Indians. And since among Indians Hindus
are in the majority, it follows that there is a high rate of suicide among Hindus.
The Hindu scriptures speak out against suicide. The Vedas declares it as “Atma Hatya”, sinning or
committing a grave crime against one’s own soul. The suicidal person is depriving his soul of the
opportunity of a body. That soul will wander in the mid-region until allotted for its duration in the body finishes. Manu, the Hindu Law Giver, also condemns suicide in his Manu Smriti (5: 89-90). He
declares: “Libation of water (jalanjali) shall not be offered to those who have committed suicide.”
As for East Indians who follow the Islamic faith, they should be reminded that Allah frowns upon
this course of action. It is said in Islam that the person who commits suicide is destined to go to hell.
The same is said for East Indian followers of the Christian faith. While we are aware of the religious
take on suicide, it still does not negate the fact that East Indians seek this terrible course of action
for reasons which include: abusive relationships/ domestic violence or having to deal with an unfaithful partner. But whatever the trouble or circumstance may be, persons are encouraged to remember that suicide is never the answer. Religious leaders contend that it is never too late to turn to good social support systems such as a place of worship, community activities, sports, etc.