The District Mental Health Programme, Phek in collaboration with Mentoring & Counselling Cell, Phek Government College observed World Suicide Prevention Day today at Deo Nukhu Hall, PGC.

The resource person, Dr. Temsulong Pongener (Psychiatrist, DH Phek) spoke on the theme “Changing the Narrative” with the call #StartTheConversation. He highlighted the growing rate of suicide cases over the last eight years and called for the need to erase the social stigma around the discourse of suicide.

He further instructed on three measures to prevent someone from committing suicide:

– to be on the lookout for anyone with signs such as a change in behaviour, sleep patterns, social distancing, etc.

– to have timely referral and give constant companionship

– to seek help for the individual in distress

Dr. Pongener also advised contacting Tele MANAS by calling their toll-free number 8008914416 or 14416. He ended the talk by urging everyone to help in saving a life by realising the need for more intervention in suicide which is a public health issue.

The programme was followed by a Q&A session and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Kupeu Mero, Asst. Prof.

Earlier, Dr. Levinu Sakhrie, Asst. Prof., chaired the programme while Shepalu Suyie, Vice Principal, Phek Government College, gave the welcome note.