Aligarh: The Residents, scholars, students, and faculty members participated in a programme organised by the Department of Psychiatry in JN Medical College at Aligarh Muslim University, on World Suicide Prevention Day, reinforcing their commitment to address mental health concerns and promoting a supportive environment for those struggling with suicidal tendencies.

Organised under the guidance of Prof Veena Maheshwari, Chairperson of the Department, the event raised awareness about issues of mental health and suicide prevention.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof RK Gaur highlighted the importance of addressing mental health issues. Dr Jitendra Kumar delivered a lecture on suicide prevention, emphasizing the need for early intervention and support.

The programme was coordinated by Dr Deoshree Akhouri, Dr Mohd Reyazuddin, and Dr Faisal Shaan. Dr Shalija Singh, Senior Resident of the Department hosted the event.

The College of Nursing also hosted an event themed “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”, under the supervision of Prof Farha Azmi, Principal, College of Nursing, and Pamela Shalini Joseph, Assistant Professor.

The Students of B.Sc. Nursing 6th Semester staged a play to inspire individuals and communities to engage in open and honest discussion about suicide and suicidal behaviour.

Prof Farha Azmi explained how to deal with a problem in a pressure situation and how to set targets for life goals.

Pamela Shalini Joseph stressed the importance of reducing stigma and good and healthy conversations among the family members, while Dr Deoshree Akhouri shared her views on why people commit suicide and what could be done to prevent it.

The interns of the Department of Psychiatry, nursing tutors, Trauma Centre OPD In-charge, JNMCH, nursing students, patients and their attendants attended the programme.