Sindhanur ( Raichur ): A few words of encouragement and support can give a distressed person hope and even change the course of their life, taluk field health education officer Geetha Hiremath told students at a World Suicide Prevention Day programme in Gorebal village on Friday.
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World Suicide Prevention Day is observed every year on Sept 10 to break the silence and stigma surrounding suicide and encourage people to speak openly about mental health concerns, she said. Because of the misconception that such conversations may plant the idea in someone’s mind or encourage an attempt, Hiremath said, many people hesitate to talk about suicide.
Suicidal thoughts rarely emerge suddenly, she said. Headmaster Amaresh said prevention begins with identifying warning signs at an early stage and staying connected with those who may be struggling emotionally. Changes in behaviour, speech and daily routines often serve as early warning signs, and recognising them in time and reaching out can help save lives. In reality, an open, compassionate conversation can help a person in distress regain confidence and find a meaningful path forward. The programme was jointly organised by the district administration, zilla panchayat, district health and family welfare department, district mental health division, taluk health officer’s office and the govt high school in Gorebal village. SDMC president Shivakumar, CHO Chandapasha, teachers and students took part in the programme.