Ampati, Sep10: In observance of World Suicide Prevention Day, the District Mental Health Program (DMHP) of South West Garo Hills hosted a special event at Chengkompara Adolescent Health Resource Centre on Tuesday, under the global theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”. The event saw active participation from educational institutions, health professionals, and community leaders, aimed at raising awareness on mental health and suicide prevention.
Attendees included teachers and students from several schools, including St. Claret Secondary School, Ampati Government Higher Secondary School, Cool Shadow Secondary School, Chengkom Medic Secondary School, and Mother’s Union Secondary School.
As part of the week-long Suicide Prevention Week, a series of competitions—Extempore Speech, Role Play, Poster Making, and Musical Chairs, were organized for students from various schools in Ampati. Prizes were awarded to the winners during the main event on World Suicide Prevention Day.
Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar spoke on the growing risks posed by social media and its potential to contribute to mental health issues among the youth. In his keynote address, Dr. A.K. Marak highlighted the urgent need for suicide prevention and the importance of mental health education at the grassroots level. Additionally, Dr. Denisha Momin addressed the root causes of mental illness and its link to rising suicide rates.
Throughout the week, the DMHP conducted awareness programs in schools and communities, focusing on the prevention of suicide and promoting mental health resources available to the public.
The event was a powerful reminder of the role that community and health programs can play in addressing mental health challenges and promoting suicide prevention.
In North Garo Hills, World Suicide Prevention Day was also observed in Resubelpara RMSA Secondary School, Resubelpara.
The programme organised by District Mental Health Programme, North Garo Hills aims to spread awareness about suicide prevention, the importance of mental health awareness as well as that of community support in combating suicide.
Dr Rezia Sangma, District Nodal Officer, DMHP speaking sideline on the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” with the call to action “Start the Conversation”, said the programme focused on supporting people who are struggling with mental health issues by encouraging them to create a culture of openness thereby reducing stigma around suicide and help prevent suicide.
She also called upon the community to support by identifying people with suicidal issues and encouraged them to seek help.
Dr Rezia further highlighted the activity of District Mental Health Programme and urged anyone with mental issues to avail assistance being provided by DMHP.
Earlier, a cycle rally as part of world suicide prevention day was held wherein A•we Pedallers Club Resubelpara participated to raise awareness in suicide prevention.
