World Suicide Prevention Day observed in Manipur

Observing World Suicide Prevention Day under the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”, the National Mental Health Programme, in collaboration with the Directorate of Health Services, organised events across Manipur to raise awareness on mental health and suicide prevention.
In Imphal, the main programme was held at the College of Commerce, DM University’s Utility Hall. Speaking at the event, Health Services Director Dr. Chambo Gonmei highlighted alarming statistics, noting that from May 3, 2023, a significant number of people in Manipur had died by suicide or attempted suicide. Citing global figures, he said around 700,000 people die by suicide every year, with the state recording at least five to six cases monthly.
Dr. Gonmei emphasized that suicide is largely rooted in social and psychological factors, particularly among those aged 15 to 59. He stressed the importance of timely counselling for individuals showing early signs of mental distress, noting that early intervention can save lives.
He also called for open conversations about mental health and greater awareness to debunk stigma, especially among children facing suppressed anger, fear, and emotional challenges. Highlighting the impact of recent conflicts, he mentioned that internally displaced persons (IDPs) living in relief camps have been provided counselling support by medical teams visiting the camps regularly.
The event was attended by Director of Family Welfare Services Dr. N. Hemantakumar, Additional Director of Health Services Dr. N. Bino, State Mission Director of NHM Manipur Dr. M. Dinesh, and Principal of the College of Arts, DM University, Prof. Sagolshem Lanchenba.
Meanwhile, the 86 Battalion CRPF also observed the day under the theme “Changing the Narrative”, focusing on shifting perspectives from despair to hope and promoting open conversations on mental health. Guest speakers from Shija Academy of Health Sciences, Dr. Meesha Haorongbam, Psychiatrist, and Miss Athokpam Nidhibala, Clinical Psychologist, highlighted that suicide should be treated as a call for empathy and timely support rather than a sign of weakness.
Addressing the gathering, Commandant Saurabh Kumar Chaudhary reaffirmed the battalion’s commitment to the welfare of its personnel and the local community, stressing that mental well-being is as vital as physical fitness and that collective responsibility is essential in suicide prevention.
Also, the Department of Clinical Psychology, RIMS, in collaboration with the District Administration, Imphal West, observed World Suicide Prevention Day today at Mekola Gulap Higher Secondary School.
The programme was held under the supervision of Dr. Sameeta Ngairangbam, Head of Department of Clinical Psychology, RIMS, Imphal. As part of the observance, a Mental Health Camp was organized where a total of 189 internally displaced persons (IDPs) participated. Psychological assessments, counselling sessions, and behavioural therapy techniques were provided to the inmates during the camp.
World Suicide Prevention Day 2025 was observed today by the Department of Community Medicine of Churachandpur Medical College, Imphal Campus, Kyamgei in collaboration with The Collective Trust.
The theme of the campaign is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” with a special focus on the “Let’s Talk” campaign.
The day’s keynote address was given by Prof. Chongtham Arunkumar Singh, Dean (Academics), Churachandpur Medical College. Dr. Guddi Laishram HOD i/c Department of Community Medicine deliberated the over view epidemiology of Suicide and its prevention by raising awareness and increasing IEC activity. Paonam Thoibi, Clinical Psychologist (Founder the Collective Trust) had interacted in depth among the medical students of the Churachandpur Medical College, Imphal Campus, Kyamgei regarding the theme and suicide prevention.