Pakistani model Anam Tanoli’s untimely and tragic death left friends, family and fans shocked and sent waves of grief across the fashion industry. Tanoli’s death ruled to be a case of suicide, has sparked a debate on depression and people including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf’s Presidential nominee, Dr Arif Alvi, have called for a 24/7 depression helpline.
Taking to Twitter, Dr Alvi wrote, “Millions of people specially women under different socio-economic pressures face depression and some commit suicide. Psychiatric help should be readily available including a 24/7 helpline.”
Model Anam Tanoli ‘commits suicide’ in Lahore https://t.co/l26rWdwSoE… Millions of people specially women under different socio-economic pressures face depression & some commit suicide. Psychiatric help should be readily available including a 24/7 helpline.
— Dr. Arif Alvi (@ArifAlvi) September 2, 2018
The suggestion was well-received and people under the tweet shared that a 24/7 helpline is a necessity in Pakistan.
According to the police, the 26-year-old model was found dead in her home in Lahore’s Defence area on Saturday. Her body was found hanging and the post-mortem examination concluded it to be a case of suicide.
Her family in their statements to the police revealed that the model, who had returned from Italy a few months ago, had been under mental stress and reportedly had an appointment scheduled for the same day with a therapist.
Members of the entertainment and fashion industry also took to social media to share their grief and shock.
Actor and social media star, Mawra Hocane wrote that though she did not know Anam personally, she spoke to a close friend of the model and is “devastated that a young beautiful girl succumbed to the bullies around her.” She detailed that her friend revealed that Anam was “deeply affected by social media trolling & bullying at work” and was “suffering from depression.”
Mawra further said, “I wish she was stronger but I also wish that we were kinder, all of us. Be on a watch, anyone around us could be suffering from depression and your words can take someone’s life. I’m sorry #AnamTanoli on behalf of everyone who pushed you take such a step. My condolences & love to the family!”
“It is about time we treat depression as an illness so we can comfort the ones suffering, at least. Seek medical help without reluctance. Please don’t be afraid of the society, protect yourself first!” Mawra signed off.
Actor Armeena Khan wrote on Twitter, “A young, up and coming Pakistani/Italian model died yesterday. On the face of it, it looks like suicide by hanging. I wonder what could possibly have driven a talented young girl like that to take her own life. RIP.”
A young, up and coming Pakistani/Italian model died yesterday. On the face of it, it looks like suicide by hanging. I wonder what could possibly have driven a talented young girl like that to take her own life. R.I.P. #anamtanoli #depressionkills #bekindtoothers
— Armeena Khan (@ArmeenaRK) September 2, 2018
Model Rehmat Ajmal penned a heartbreaking note asking everyone to support each other and spread kindness instead of hate.
Meanwhile, renowned fashion designer, Rizwan Beyg called out the fashion industry for sidelining Anam’s tragic suicide and not paying attention to the underlining problem.
“Amidst all the awards and celebration the tragic suicide of Anum Tanoli has been totally sidelined and not been addressed by the fashion fraternity, ” wrote the designer on Facebook.
He continued, “I never knew Anum or worked with her but the awful awful stories surrounding her suicide are a wake-up call for all those of us who still have a conscience and some shred of humanity left. Stories of body shaming and downright vicious attacks on a young vulnerable girl are hugely disturbing and what is even more disturbing is a total lack of remorse, sadness or indignation on her passing. I am ashamed Anum…and sorry I was silent at the injustice you faced at the hands of the fraternity I am part of. Rest in peace Anum because I certainly cannot.”
