The World Suicide Prevention Day was observed at Health and wellness Centre, Langathel in a programme organised by District Mental Health Programme of National Health Mission Thoubal on Friday.
The day is observed across the globe on September 10. This year, the day is being observed under the theme, ‘Creating Hope through Action.’
The observation was attended by Wangjing - Tentha assembly constituency MLA Paonam Brojen as chief guest, deputy commissioner Thoubal district Rangnamei Rang Peter as president while chief medical officer, Thoubal Dr Y Nokul, district surveillance officer Dr Kh Trustee, MO of PHC Khongjom Dr Th Somananda as guests of honour.
Speaking as the chief guest MLA Brojen raised serious concerns on the rising cases of suicides and stressed on the need to take up timely measures for suicide prevention. Parents and guardians must learn to detect the behavioural changes in their children and consult the experts for guidance and support, he said.
“To prevent suicide, we cannot rely only on doctors. Everyone needs to have knowledge and understanding of the issue,” he added.
District programme manager Ch Basanta said World Suicide Prevention Day is observed to spread more awareness to the public concerning suicide and its effects, and take up timely measures to prevent suicide.
Pointing out there can be many factors behind suicide; he asserted that concerted efforts from all are required to prevent suicide. As a part of the occasion, senior psychiatrist Dr H Angomcha spoke on the causes of suicidal thoughts and remedial measures that need to be taken up.
He further said that there can be several reasons behind suicidal thoughts. Discrimination of COVID-19 patients by family and community can lead to negative thoughts and feelings, and it could lead to suicide.
“If given timely measures, suicides can be prevented, he said. To prevent suicide, efforts starting from individual to family and further to the bigger community are required,” he said.
District surveillance officer Dr Trustee said that if anyone is aware that a person is contemplating suicide, then they must not keep it to themselves. The person who needs help must be provided immediate help by consulting a health care centre or by contacting experts at helpline number 104, he added.
The occasion was attended by staff of health and wellness Centre Langathel, ASHAs and others.
