The silence that follows the loss of a child is often filled with questions that have no answers. For parents who lose children to suicide, guilt and grief linger long after the rituals end. In this space of unimaginable pain, Maneesh Chealakadan has chosen to stand beside those who suffer — not as an expert, but as a father who understands.
The 42-year-old bodybuilder and gym trainer from Alappuzha began visiting bereaved families after losing his 10-year-old son last July. Whenever he reads about a teenage suicide in the news, he quietly travels to the family’s home to sit with them.
Listening where words fail
Maneesh says his purpose is simple — to listen. “They don’t need advice. They need someone who understands,” he shared. In many cases, he observed that another suicide had occurred nearby days earlier, often involving someone known to the child. For children already distressed by academic pressure, family tensions or personal struggles, such incidents can become a triggering factor.
In his own case, tragedy unfolded after a family member died by suicide at their home. His young son witnessed the aftermath and was later exposed to repeated retellings by visitors. Two weeks later, the child lost his life while imitating the act.
A growing concern in Kerala
Kerala has seen a worrying rise in under-18 suicides. According to 2025 data, 359 cases were reported — an increase from 332 in 2024 and 270 in 2023. Of these, 73 victims were below 14 years and 286 were between 14 and 18. Thiruvananthapuram recorded 54 cases, followed by Kollam with 42.
Mental health experts, including psychiatrists in government medical colleges, have cautioned about “suicide contagion” — where exposure to such incidents influences vulnerable minds.
Amid these sobering numbers, Maneesh’s quiet visits are a reminder that healing begins with compassion. His message to grieving parents is gentle yet powerful: you are not alone.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek help from a trusted adult, counsellor or local mental health helpline immediately. Support is available.