REPORT ON WORLD SUICIDE PREVENTION DAY 2026 AWARENESS PROGRAMME

The Department of Psychiatric (Mental Health) Nursing, Manipal College of Nursing, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), organized an awareness program on World Suicide Prevention Day 2026 at Trinity School, Udupi, on 12 September 2026, from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM.

The program aimed to create awareness about suicide prevention and promote adolescent mental well-being, with emphasis on the role of parents and teachers in recognizing emotional distress, initiating supportive conversations, and facilitating timely professional support.

The session was delivered by Dr. Rajeshkrishna Bhandary P, Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, on the topic “Parents + Teachers = A Safety Net for Every Teenager.” The session highlighted the importance of open communication, empathetic listening, early recognition of warning signs, reducing stigma, and seeking appropriate professional help.

The program was attended by 90 students, 62 teachers, and 50 parents, for a total of 202 participants. Mrs. Asha K. Nayak and Mrs. Prathibha Lydia Braggs, Faculty, Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Manipal College of Nursing, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, coordinated the session and facilitated the smooth conduct of the program.

The program encouraged students, parents, and teachers to “Start the Conversation” and highlighted the importance of creating a supportive environment for adolescents experiencing emotional difficulties or mental health concerns.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed

SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being

SDG 4 – Quality Education

SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities

The Department of Psychiatric (Mental Health) Nursing expressed its sincere gratitude to Fr Dominic Sunil Lobo, Principal, Trinity School, Udupi, for providing the opportunity and extending support and cooperation for conducting the awareness program. The active participation of students, teachers, and parents contributed to the successful conduct of the program.