The district legal services authority organised an awareness programme about Suicide Prevention as part of “World Suicide Prevention Day” in Belagavi on Thursday (September 10).

The event held at the K.L.S. Gogte College auditorium was aimed at creating awareness among youth, parents, teachers, civil society members and others.

Geetha Kamble, district Mental Health Programme director, said that “there is a need for creating awareness among the people about the social dimensions of issues like suicide.”

She emphasised that suicide was not merely a personal issue but a public health concern with serious repercussions for families and the society.

According to World Health Organisation (WHO) reports, over 720,000 people worldwide die by suicide annually. She explained that September 10th is observed globally as “World Suicide Prevention Day” to raise public awareness about preventing suicide,’’ she said.

“The society should dispel misconceptions and the stigma surrounding mental health issues and instead foster an environment of empathy and support. Speaking openly about mental health and seeking expert advice plays a crucial role in suicide prevention. Everyone must join hands in the effort to prevent suicides,” said K.N. Shivakumar, Senior Civil Judge and Member Secretary of the Belagavi District Legal Services Authority, stated that

He urged individuals facing despair or mental stress to speak with family members, friends, and healthcare personnel to help overcome depression.

“The event was organized jointly by the District Administration, Zilla Panchayat, District Health and Family Welfare Department (Belagavi), District Mental Health Programme (Belagavi), Taluk Health Office (Belagavi), District Legal Services Authority (Belagavi), Department of Public Instruction (Belagavi), K.L.S. Gogte College of Commerce (Belagavi), the NSS Unit, Lakeview Foundation, and Lakeview College of Nursing (Belagavi),” said a release.

R.S. Mutalik, Chairman of K.L.S. Gogte College of Commerce governing council, said that “since we experience various challenges in life, there was no reason to be driven to suicide. Everyone faces ups and downs and failures and success. We should learn to take them in our stride,’’

Jagadish Jinge, the District Vector-Borne Disease Control Officer, spoke about the necessity of providing timely help, support, and encouragement to those suffering from mental stress, depression, anxiety, and social issues. Highlighting this year’s theme—“Changing the Narrative on Suicide”—he urged everyone to remain vigilant and embrace the spirit of living fully and triumphing over life’s challenges.

Prakash Mane , Deputy District Health Education Officer, Principal Dr. Nagaraj. Venu Gopal S. Jalihal, Dr Bhimasen Takkalaki Sunil Jabagoudar, Savita Tigadi, Basavaraja Desai, Mahesh B. Poojari and others were present.