In order to raise awareness of suicides/suicide attempts and to promote preventive measures with an aim to reduce number of suicides and stomp stigma, District Mental Health Programmes (DMHPs), Kohima and Zunheboto observed World Suicide Prevention Week from September 10 to 16.
Held under the theme, ‘Creating hope through action’, the event was held at All India Radio (AIR) Kohima, Mount Olive College, Don Bosco College Kohima and Mount Hermon Higher Secondary School Kohima.
A press release from DMHP Kohima, informed that suicide was a global concern and a serious public health issue, however was preventable, with understanding about suicides, dispelling myths, sensitizing about the warning signs of suicidal behaviour, risks and protective factors amongst young students which was a way forward to change the narratives.
DMHP Kohima expressed gratitude to the esteemed educational institutions and AIR Kohima for their unwavering support and encouragement.
In Zunheboto, the awareness week was conducted- Cornerstone HSS, Sunbeam High School, Government Middle School South Point East, Study Point coaching center, Zunheboto Town Sumi Baptist church, Aizuto Youth.
At the campaign, Atolimi I Khujumi clinical psychologist briefed on the causes and preventive steps for the suicidal tendency. She also spoke about the myths and facts of suicide. Khruvotolu psychiatric social worker talked about the Nagaland tele-counseling cell and encouraged them to reach out. 526 participants attended the campaign.