Report of World Suicide Prevention Day 2018

Every year the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) observe World Suicide Prevention day. Suicide prevention remains a universal challenge. Every year, suicide is among the top 20 leading causes of death globally for people of all ages. It is responsible for over 800,000 deaths, which equates to one suicide every 40 seconds. For every suicide, 25 people make a suicide attempt and many more have serious thoughts of suicide. Preventing suicide is often possible and each of us are a key player in its prevention.

The theme for the year 2018 is ‘Working Together to Prevent Suicide’. The theme highlights the most essential ingredient for effective global suicide prevention- collaboration. Everyone can make a contribution in preventing suicide. In order to generate awareness regarding this aspect The World Suicide Prevention Day 2018 was observed at Government Composite High school, Rajeev Nagar, Udupi on 12 September 2018 between 2.30 pm to 4.00 pm for 40 students by the faculty, Department of Psychiatric Nursing and students of second year Post Basic BSc Nursing, Manipal College of Nursing, Manipal. The gathering was welcomed and the theme was introduced by Ms Princia Stephny Dsouza, II year Post Basic BSc Nursing student.

Mrs. Savitha, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatric Nursing, spoke on factors leading to suicide and its prevention among adolescents. A role-play based on the days’ theme was enacted emphasizing the importance of prevention of suicide and importance of life for high school children, which was followed by a video presentation regarding the same. The program was ended by a vote of thanks by Ms. Deeksha, II year Post Basic BSc Nursing student.
The Head Master of the school Mr. Balakrishna expressed his gratitude and appreciated the efforts taken by the faculty and students of Manipal College of Nursing, Manipal.