World Suicide prevention week at GIMS, Greater Noida

 

Vision Live/Greater Noida 

Suicide is a major public health problem with far-reaching social, emotional and economic consequences. It is estimated that there are currently more than 700 000 suicides per year worldwide, and we know that each suicide profoundly affects many more people.  “Creating Hope Through Action” is the triennial theme for the World Suicide Prevention Day from 2021-2023. This theme serves as a powerful call to action and reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and that through our actions we can encourage hope and strengthen prevention.

Keeping up with the theme, World Suicide prevention week is being observed from 10th to 16th September throughout the world. Department of Psychiatry, Government Institute of Medical sciences took an initiative to raise awareness regarding suicide and its prevention among the medical students. On day one, Dr Kiran Jakhar, Head, Department of Psychiatry, GIMS addressed  the participants and faculty members. She discussed about the increasing rates of suicide in India and how spreading an awareness will help people come up with their mental health issues, leaving behind the stigma attached to it. A Quiz was organised for Foreign Medical  Graduates intern with a vision to educate the participants and create awareness about suicide. On day two, students were encouraged to express their thoughts on suicide and its causes through a poster and slogan-making competition. The event was guided by Dr. (Brig.) Rakesh Gupta, honorable Director, GIMS. Doctors and Faculty members from the various departments of GIMS graced the events with their presence and took an active participation in the discussion.

The various activities held in the past two days and the upcoming activities in the coming days demonstrates the commitment to addressing the growing problem of suicide. By following Indian and international guidelines, we can continue to make progress in preventing suicide and promoting mental health awareness. This ongoing effort is essential in creating a society where individuals in crisis find hope, support, and a path to recovery.