Ranchi, September 10, 2026: An awareness programme and rally were organised at the Civil Surgeon’s auditorium in Ranchi on the occasion of World Suicide Prevention Day. The programme was inaugurated by National Health Mission Campaign Director Shashi Prakash Jha, who administered an oath to health workers and employees to remain alert towards suicide prevention and extend support to people in need.
The programme aimed to spread awareness about suicide prevention, encourage open conversations on mental health and motivate people to seek timely help during periods of emotional or mental distress.
This year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”, focuses on bringing a positive change in the way suicide and mental health are discussed and creating a more sensitive and supportive environment.
After the programme, health workers and students of ANMTC took out an awareness rally. The participants conveyed messages on suicide prevention, mental health awareness and the importance of seeking timely support.
‘We need to turn silence into conversation and hopelessness into hope’: Shashi Prakash Jha
Addressing the gathering, Shashi Prakash Jha said that positive thinking is essential for maintaining good mental health. He emphasised that silence should be turned into conversation and hopelessness into hope.
He said excessive anger, anxiety and dissatisfaction can contribute to mental stress and stressed the need to maintain emotional balance. People facing mental stress or other psychological difficulties should not try to deal with them alone, he said, adding that sharing concerns with family members, friends or healthcare professionals at the right time can help reduce the risk of suicide.
Dr Seema Gupta, District Nodal Officer, said that not sharing personal problems and emotions can be an important factor behind mental distress and suicidal tendencies. She advised people to share their concerns with someone they feel comfortable with and seek emotional and professional support when required.
She also cautioned against excessive use of social media and said sudden changes in behaviour, hopelessness, social withdrawal, prolonged stress and unusual emotional behaviour should be taken seriously. Such signs require timely communication and support.
Medical Officer Dr A.R. Mustafi stressed the importance of positive behaviour and a healthy lifestyle. He said signs of depression may include persistent sadness, withdrawal from family and friends and loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyable. Such changes should not be ignored, and professional help should be sought when necessary.
Awareness campaign to continue in schools and colleges till September 16
As part of the World Suicide Prevention Day campaign, awareness programmes will be conducted in various schools and colleges across Ranchi district from September 10 to 16. Students and young people will be sensitised about mental health, stress management, emotional support, warning signs and the importance of seeking timely assistance.
People experiencing mental distress or a crisis will be encouraged to speak to family members, friends, teachers or healthcare workers instead of facing their problems alone.
For mental health support, people can contact the Tele-MANAS helpline at 14416
The programme was organised under the direction of Civil Surgeon Dr Amarendra Prasad. District Nodal Officer Dr Seema Gupta, Medical Officers Dr A.R. Mustafi and Dr Deepashikha, Dr Veena, District Programme Manager Praveen Kumar Singh, Regional Coordinator Shweta Verma, DPC Preeti, DDM Sanjay, Abhishek, Saroj and other officials, employees and health workers were present.
