Adyar, Chennai ( Tamil Nadu ): To observe World Suicide Prevention Day, Suicide Prevention Awareness Campaign was conducted for the general public on 17th September, 2022 in Elliot’s Beach between 04.30 p.m. to 06.30 p.m IST on the topic “Give your Best, Live your fullest”. More than 300 students from various colleges participated in this awareness event.
Blessings were given by Rajayogini B.K. Dr. Muthumani – Director, Brahma Kumaris, Adyar. Guest Speakers included :
1. Dr. P. Poorna Chandrika, Director, Institute of Mental Health
2. Dr. Saranya JaiKumar, Member, TN State Child Rights Commission, Educational Psychologist
3. Dr. A. Sathish Kumar, Country Director, Solidarity & camp; Action Against the HIV Infection in India
(SAATHII)
4. Gayatri, Volunteer of Sneha Suicide Prevention Centre
5. Mrs. M. Radhika, Greater Chennai Corporation, 174 Ward Councillor, Adyar
6. Mrs. Subashini Durai, Greater Chennai Corporation, 173 Ward Councillor, Adyar
7. Ms. T. Mary Helan, Counsellor, TTK Hospital, Adyar
8. Ms. Monisha Balamurugan, Founder / Managing Trustee of Naam Vidhaikalam
This social cause was collaborated with 9 institutions to emphasize the importance of suicide awareness to the public especially for youth.
Welcome note by Rajayogini BK Dr. Muthumani stressed the importance of the value of human life. She mentioned suicide as the greatest sin committed by an individual. She invited all those who have such intention to commit suicide can approach the centre at any time for redressing their grievances.
Dr.Saranya Jayakumar – Education Psychologist said there is no valid reason to commit suicide and all problems can be resolved. She conveyed that our remote control is in our hands and can control oneself. She also requested the public to boost the morale of others.
Radhika, Councillor 174 ward praised the services of BK organization for the public. She advised to share the feelings to a friend at time of distress. She narrated about Ma Subramanian on how he came up in life crossing many hurdles.
Dr.P.Poorna chandrika said that thoughts of suicide are like a speed breaker and asked to overcome it. One can call the dedicated number: 104 and listen to the trained councilor for the relief. She said there are so many options to choose.
Dr. A. Sathish Kumar: He listed HIV, TB, COVID, LGBT are the causes of suicide. Their organization can guide people affected by these diseases for proper treatment. He sought support of the public to guide such people to SAATHI. He requested not to bully such suffering people but rather guide them to SAATHI for advice.
Subhasini Durai, Councillor 172 ward advised to be Bold and strong. She advised to talk to friends and write their problems in diaries. She advocated failures are the stepping stone to success and proceed.
Gayatri said that they are doing this service for 36 years and they listen to all the distressed people. She asked to call if you feel low and they are available from 8 am till 10 pm.
Mrs. Mary Helen spoke about Addiction treatment given by them. She advices family members and also the affected person. She said alcohol drug addiction is a disease and can be cured. She said life is possible without drugs. She finished off saying yes to life and no to drugs.
Ms. Monisha Balamurugan said that one gets 30 to 40 thoughts before committing suicide. People commit suicide to stop their pain. She suggested approaching councillor if mind is not well.
Students of Vysarpadi Dr. Ambedkar arts college performed street play on difficulties faced by suicide victims and the various option available before them to get out of it.
Yoga and Dance on the theme of Suicide Prevention was performed by Adhya Group and Leads Group.
All the participants went on a Peace March with placards carrying message of suicide prevention in the Elliot’s Beach stretch.
Memento was given to all guests for their partnership with Brahma Kumaris Adyar and Certificates were given to all the students who participated in the event.
Below are the list of institutions who collaborated with Brahma Kumaris, Adyar:
1. Institute of Mental Health (IMH)
2. Sneha Suicide Prevention Centre
3. SAATHI
4. Anna University
5. TTK Hospital
6. Naam Vidhaikalam
7. Adhya school of Individual Sports
8. Leads Dance and Fitness Academy
