The death of Instagram influencer Misha Agrawal has sparked a national conversation. Reports suggest she took her own life after a drop in followers. Mumbai-based psychiatrist Dr. Harish Shetty warns against rushing to conclusions about what led to her tragic end. He says the true causes of suicide are often more complex and not as visible as people might think.
Psychological Autopsy: A Key to Understanding Suicide
Dr. Harish Shetty calls for a Psychological Autopsy to uncover the real reasons behind a suicide. This scientific investigation looks into the mental state of a person before their death. It helps us understand the deeper issues at play. Dr. Shetty said it’s misleading to assume a drop in social media followers was the main cause of Agrawal’s death. He explained that this may only have been the final straw. Many times, the reasons behind suicide are much more complicated than what’s seen on the surface.
Avoiding Myths and Simplified Narratives
Dr. Shetty also warns against the myths that often surround suicides. He pointed out that these myths can come from family members, friends, or even the media. The media often focuses on popular explanations, like the loss of followers. But Dr. Shetty stressed that this oversimplifies the problem. The real struggles are often hidden from view. It’s important to avoid these easy answers and recognize the complexity of mental health.
The Role of Self-Worth in Mental Health
Dr. Shetty explained that a person’s sense of self-worth plays a big role in how they deal with life’s challenges. Influencers, like Misha Agrawal, may seem successful to the outside world. They have large followings and public praise. But this doesn’t always mean they are emotionally resilient. Dr. Shetty said that positive self-esteem helps people cope better during crises. When someone’s worth is tied to social media validation, it can make them more vulnerable to depression.
Undiagnosed Depression: A Hidden Cause
Another possible factor in Agrawal’s death could be undiagnosed depression. Dr. Shetty explained that depression is often hard to detect, especially in the early stages. Many people with depression appear to be functioning normally outwardly. But, as Dr. Shetty said, “The mind is like a fuse — it can go off without reason.” Depression doesn’t always have a clear trigger. This highlights the need for better mental health screenings, especially for influencers under constant public scrutiny.
India’s Growing Suicide Crisis
Dr. Shetty pointed out that India is facing a growing suicide crisis. The country is becoming known for having one of the highest suicide rates in the world. Mental health issues are often overlooked, and there are not enough resources to help people who need support. Dr. Shetty urged that India needs better systems for mental health care. Influencers, especially those with a history of mental health issues, should have access to better resources. They need to find more sources of self-worth, not just social media attention.
Invisible Stressors and the Media’s Role
Dr. Shetty also reminded us that many stressors leading to suicide are hidden. These may never be fully understood, even after a person’s death. He urged the media to avoid spreading rumors or making assumptions about the causes of suicide. It’s important to recognize that mental health issues are complex, and there are often many factors involved.
