Happy Suicidal Nation

In Bhutan, a mountain kingdom that measures gross national happiness, how do you explain a spate of suicides?

In Bhutan, a mountain kingdom that measures GDP as GNH or gross national happiness, how do you explain a spate of suicides? In its largest hospital in Thimpu, patients are being rushed in after having tried to take their lives, says an Independent report. Pills, nail polish remover and a ‘mysterious spirit’ were used in these bids. Last year’s survey by the Centre for Bhutan Studies says 5 per cent of respondents had contemplated suicide,  and 1.4 per cent had made the attempt. Prime Minister Jigme Thinley says change is causing disorientation.

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Pramila N. Phatarphekar