Puthukad: The Postgraduate and Research Department of Psychology in Prajyoti Niketan College here observed World Suicide Prevention Day on Monday.

Various programmes, which focused on raising awareness, reducing social stigma, and providing crucial resources to support those at risk, were organized as part of the event. The event began with an oath-taking ceremony followed by a rally of students of the psychology department.

The participants wore yellow ribbons as a symbol of suicide prevention awareness and banners and placards with slogans calling for suicide prevention.

Slogan-writing contests and quiz competitions were also held as part of the event. The winners of the slogan-writing competition - Nandhana P Nair (3rd year BA English), Rejoy Mathew Antony (1st year BA Psychology), and Akshay M S (1st year BA English) - were also awarded on the day.

Suicide prevention messages and videos were also displayed on a television screen in the main block of the college throughout the day.

"The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day 2023 is 'Creating Hope through Action', reflecting the need for collective efforts to address this critical issue. Spreading awareness about suicide can help individuals deal with stress and help them understand that suicide is not the only solution to their problems," said Azra Subahani, a psychology student.

Another psychology student, Akshita Shibu, added, "I gained awareness on how to identify people who might be dealing with suicidal thoughts and how to approach and help them overcome it."

Dr Milu Maria Anto, Head of the Department of Psychology, and Dr Sukanya B Menon, Prajyoti Clinic Coordinator, coordinated the programmes.

Dr Mary Paul, vice principal of the college, and Dr Jaya A T, assistant professor of the psychology department, also spoke at the event.

(The author is a second year Bachelor of Commerce student of Prajyoti Niketan College, reporting for Onmanorama as part of our campus outreach programme, Onmanorama Campus Reporter.)