- By: Faiq Ali Shah
“When individuals feel disconnected from their social groups, leading to feelings of loneliness and meaninglessness, or when they are excessively integrated into a group and feel compelled to sacrifice themselves for its benefit, or when norms are disrupted, causing individuals to feel uncertain and purposeless, or when someone sees no escape from their situation, people resort to suicide”, émile Durkheim’s says.
Emile Durkheim provides us with a sociological suicide concept that helps us understand an individual’s suicide, so keeping this concept in mind will also help us understand the cause of Ziauddin’s case. Ziauddin? A law student from Dir district, ended his life in the university hostel, Peshawar, sending deep shock and grief to his family, friends and community. Despite appearing happy and content, this young man was quietly struggling with personal struggles. His death, accompanied by a poignant letter to his parents, highlights the complex interplay of social and personal factors that can lead to such a devastating outcome. In the letter, he wrote, “Dad, I’m in a state where it’s impossible to express. The heart is tired of this world. I love someone and there’s no such thing. I just don’t want to live this life. I can’t live in this society, don’t know why?” He also made it clear that his decision was not related to a failed love affair. Durkheim identified four types of suicide: egoistic, altruistic, anomic, and fatalistic. In this case, the student’s despair seems to resonate most with egoistic and anomic suicide:
Egoistic suicide occurs when individuals feel disconnected from society, lacking meaningful social bonds. The student’s letter to his parents reveals a profound sense of isolation, even though he appeared happy to those around him. His statement, “I just don’t want to live this life. I can’t live in this society,” underscores the disconnection he felt from those around him. This mirrors Durkheim’s notion of egoistic suicide, where insufficient social ties lead individuals to feel alone and unsupported in their struggles. This type of suicide highlights the dangers of emotional detachment and the absence of a supportive social network, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and despair.
Anomic suicide, on the other hand, happens during periods of social or economic disruption, where established norms and values are in flux. The student’s letter expresses his struggle with societal expectations and a sense of not fitting in, reflecting the disorientation characteristic of anomic suicide. The rapid changes and rigid norms within society may have left him feeling lost and without direction, contributing to his tragic decision. The student’s reference to the societal pressures and his inability to cope within this environment aligns with Durkheim’s concept of anomic suicide, where sudden or continuous societal changes disrupt an individual’s sense of stability and purpose.
The letter left by the student reveals his internal battle with societal expectations and personal struggles. He mentioned that his decision was not related to a failed love affair but rather to a profound dissatisfaction with life and societal norms. This suggests a mix of egoistic and anomic factors, where both isolation and societal pressures played roles. Young people today face immense pressure to excel academically, secure stable jobs, and conform to societal standards. These expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness, especially when coupled with the stigma surrounding mental health. The student’s inability to express his struggles openly or seek help reflects the broader issue of mental health stigma, which often prevents individuals from reaching out for support.
Durkheim’s model helps us understand that suicide is not merely an individual act but is deeply influenced by social factors. The neoliberal system, with its emphasis on competition and individual success, can exacerbate feelings of isolation and failure among young people. Economic stress, academic pressures, and the lack of a supportive environment can create a sense of despair, as seen in the student’s case.
This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for mental health awareness and support within educational institutions and society at large. Schools and universities must establish counseling services that are easily accessible to students and Professors. There should be open discussions about mental health to reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek help when needed. Creating a supportive environment is crucial. Families, friends, and communities must learn to listen without judgment and offer empathy to those struggling. Simple conversations and check-ins can make a significant difference in preventing feelings of isolation.
Beyond individual support, there is a need for systemic changes to address mental health issues. The state must create an economic, social, and educational framework that alleviates mental distress. Support centers in educational institutions can help students manage stress related to fees, exams, and other pressures. This young student’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of the hidden battles many people face. By promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and building a compassionate society, we can help prevent such tragedies in the future. It is a collective responsibility to ensure that no one feels alone in their struggles.