BHUBANESWAR, SEP 10
The Department of Psychiatry at KIMS observed World Suicide Prevention Day on Tuesday, aiming to raise awareness about suicide prevention and emphasize the importance of recognizing suicidal tendencies while reducing the stigma surrounding mental health challenges. This year’s theme was “Combating Stigma: Changing the Narrative on Suicide.”
Experts covered several key topics during the event, detailing the signs of suicidal tendencies, which may include noticeable mood changes, social withdrawal, feelings of hopelessness, alterations in eating or sleeping habits, and increased use of alcohol or drugs. They stressed that these symptoms can be early warning signs that require immediate attention.
Dr. R.N. Samanta, Senior Advisor at KIMS, encouraged parents to adopt a more supportive and cooperative role in their children’s lives to help prevent suicides. Dr. R.C. Das, Medical Superintendent of KIMS, emphasized the need to strengthen campus safety measures to foster a zero-suicide environment.
The discussions also addressed risk factors that increase the likelihood of suicide, such as academic pressure, mental health conditions, past trauma or abuse, lack of social support, and substance misuse. These factors can place individuals, particularly students, in vulnerable positions, making it crucial to address them for effective prevention.
In terms of safety measures, the doctors highlighted the importance of maintaining strong social connections with friends and family, seeking professional help when needed, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and engaging in positive activities. These support systems, often referred to as “safety nets,” play a critical role in preventing suicidal behaviour.
For individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, the doctors recommended several strategies, including talking to someone they trust, creating a pause between thoughts and actions to reconsider, ensuring home safety by removing dangerous items, and avoiding drugs or alcohol, which can worsen feelings of hopelessness.
A dedicated Suicide Prevention Helpline for students and families was launched on this occasion. Besides, various competitions, such as poster and elocution contests, were organized to further engage students in spreading awareness.
Over the past three years, more than 26,000 students across the country have died by suicide.
KIMS Associate Dean and Vice Principal, Dr. (Prof.) Shubhransu Patro, underscored the critical role of healthcare professionals in this battle, stating that mental health is as important as physical health. He stressed the need for healthcare providers to ensure that no one feels alone or without hope.
Dr. Sudipta Kumar Das, Head of the Department of Psychiatry, identified hopelessness as a key factor in determining whether someone may attempt suicide. He emphasized that suicide is not only a mental health issue but also a social and cultural problem. Dr. Jayaprakash Russell Ravan, Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, added that once someone has firmly decided to commit suicide, intervention can be challenging, highlighting the complexity of the issue.
Other speakers, including Assistant Professor Jigyansa Ipsita Pattnaik and Associate Professor Dr. Pranab Mahapatra, also shared their insights, reinforcing the event’s message of raising awareness, promoting prevention, and ensuring that mental health support is readily available to those in need.
