An 18-year-old man allegedly died by suicide in Telangana’s Sangareddy district after losing ₹1 lakh through an online betting application, police said on Wednesday, highlighting the growing mental health risks linked to digital gambling among youth.

Incident in Kandukur area

The deceased, identified as Vikram, was a resident of the Kandukur area in Sangareddy district. According to police, he consumed insecticide at his home after suffering financial distress due to losses incurred on a betting app.

Family members noticed him taking the extreme step and immediately rushed him to a hospital. However, he died while undergoing treatment. Police have registered a case and said further investigation is under way to ascertain the circumstances that led to the incident.

Pattern of distress linked to online betting

The Sangareddy case comes just weeks after a similar incident in Hyderabad, where a taxi driver allegedly died by suicide after accumulating heavy debt due to online betting. Police said the man had been addicted to betting platforms for nearly two years.

In another case, Paladugu Sai, a 24-year-old from Yadadri-Bhuvanagiri district, reportedly borrowed large sums from friends, relatives and banks to continue betting. At the time of his death, he was facing debts of nearly ₹15 lakh. He too consumed pesticide and died during treatment, police said.

Rising concern across states

Authorities and mental health experts have expressed concern over the increasing number of suicides linked to online betting and gaming losses. Earlier this month, a 32-year-old civil contractor in Bhopal allegedly ended his life after losing around ₹30 lakh in an online game. A note recovered from his house reportedly mentioned mounting debt and pressure.

Police officials say such cases underline the urgent need for awareness, early intervention and regulation of online betting platforms, especially those easily accessible to young users.

Call for awareness and support

Mental health professionals stress that financial loss, addiction and shame can severely impact emotional wellbeing, particularly among adolescents and young adults. Families are urged to look out for behavioural changes, withdrawal and signs of distress, and to seek help without delay.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available:

  • Vandrevala Foundation for Mental Health: 9999 666 555 | [email protected]
  • TISS iCALL: 022-2552 1111 (Monday to Saturday, 8 am to 10 pm)

Seeking support is a sign of strength, and timely help can save lives.