Female Suicide in Ghizer: Policy Gaps and Prevention Strategies — Way Forward

Abstract

Female suicide in Ghizer District, Gilgit-Baltistan, has become a critical public health and human rights concern, reflecting a complex interplay of social, cultural, and economic determinants. Despite recurring incidents, policy responses remain fragmented, with significant gaps in data collection, prevention, and intervention. This study analyzes secondary sources, media reports, and stakeholder perspectives to identify systemic weaknesses, including the absence of a coordinated suicide surveillance mechanism, inadequate community-based mental health services, weak referral pathways between schools, healthcare facilities, and law enforcement, and insufficient protection measures for women facing gender-based violence. Contributing factors such as stigma, restrictive gender norms, geographic isolation, and lack of digital access further impede help seeking. To address these challenges, the paper proposes an integrated, multi-level prevention framework: establishing a district-level suicide monitoring unit with confidential, gender-sensitive reporting; incorporating routine mental health screening into primary and maternal health services; introducing school- and community-based life skills education and gatekeeper training for teachers, health workers, and community leaders; expanding safe shelters, legal aid, and one-stop gender-based violence support centers; enforcing responsible media guidelines; and limiting access to common means of self-harm. Tele-mental health platforms, 24/7 helplines, and peer-support networks are recommended to overcome barriers of distance and privacy. The way forward emphasizes cross-sectoral coordination among health, education, police, and social welfare departments, sustainable financing, culturally sensitive awareness campaigns, and rigorous monitoring, with the ultimate goal of reducing female suicide rates and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of women in Ghizer.

Keywords: Ghizer; Gilgit-Baltistan; Female suicide; Policy gaps; Prevention strategies