World Suicide Prevention Day was observed today at the JS Auditorium of Shija Hospital’s Itocha Block under the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide: Start the Conversation”, jointly organised by Shija Hospital and the Indian Psychiatric Society–Manipur State Branch.
Ningthoujam Geoffrey, Commissioner of Education (Schools), who attended as chief guest, called for a collective understanding that suicide can be prevented. He said despite advances in technology and civilisation, human life remains vulnerable to despair and urged society to help people facing difficulties rather than allowing them to lose hope.
He stressed that life is meant to be lived and not ended, and urged people to seek support when overwhelmed by difficulties. He also said suicide prevention requires greater awareness of warning signs and changes in behaviour, with friends, families and communities playing a key role in providing timely support.
The programme was presided over by Prof. Koijam Shantibala, Head of the Department of Psychiatry, Shija Academy of Health Sciences, and President of IPS–Manipur State Branch.
Editor of Imphal Review of Arts and Politics Pradip Phanjoubam, SAHS Director Dr Amuba Maisnam and Shija Hospital and Research Institute Pvt Ltd Chairman-cum-Managing Director Dr Palin Khundongbam attended as guests of honour, while JNIMS Department of Psychiatry Assistant Professor and IPS–MSB Secretary Dr Nelson Loitongbam was the guest speaker.
The programme also featured an essay-writing competition, followed by an award ceremony and a pledge for suicide prevention.
