The recent increase in suicides being carried out during video calls highlights a disturbing trend in the intersection of technology and mental health. These incidents, often discovered by loved ones on the other end of the call, leave behind profound grief and unanswered questions. While each case carries its own unique circumstances, they collectively underscore the urgent need for increased awareness, mental health support, and responsible technology use.

One such tragic incident occurred recently, where a 28-year-old woman reportedly committed suicide while on a video call with her husband who was working in Saudi Arabia. Specific details regarding the location and the reason for taking such drastic steps are still under investigation.

In another instance, a 32-year-old woman in Valsad, India, tragically ended her life during a video call with her husband due to suspicions of infidelity. According to reports, Aarti Patel made a video call to her husband, Jitendra, and hanged herself during the call. Their two sons, aged 13 and 19, were not at home at the time of the incident.

Earlier this year, a 38-year-old private bank employee in Bengaluru, Vivek Samadarshi, died by suicide during a video call with his wife. He locked himself in a room and video-called his wife, who was sleeping in the next room, before taking his own life. The wife alleged workplace harassment as the reason behind his suicide, which is currently being investigated by the police. No suicide note was found at the scene.

Another heartbreaking case involved a youth in his early 20s in Lucknow, who committed suicide while on a video call with his fiancée. The incident came to light when family members couldn't reach him and contacted the police. Investigations revealed that Mohammad Tariq ended his life during the call. Although the reasons for his suicide remain unclear, police are investigating all aspects of the case.

These are not isolated incidents. In November 2024, an Air India pilot, Srishti Tuli, allegedly made a video call to a friend, Aditya Rakesh Pandit, before ending her life. Investigators suspect that she made the call to show him how she was going to hang herself after a fight.

The rise in such cases has prompted discussions about the role of technology and social media in mental health. While these platforms offer connection and support, they can also exacerbate feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. The ability to broadcast one's final moments adds another layer of complexity to the issue of suicide.

These incidents serve as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and access to support services. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988. There are also numerous mental health resources available online and in local communities.