Every September, the world observes Suicide Prevention Week, reminding us that life is precious and that every step taken toward awareness can save lives. On this occasion, I had the privilege, along with my colleague Dr. Manoj Kishore Nayak, to interact with the bright students of Classes 9 to 12 at DPS Damanjodi. These years are not just academically crucial but also emotionally intense — a time when young hearts and minds need the right guidance, empathy, and tools to navigate challenges.
The session was beautifully hosted under the able guidance of Principal Mrs Sujata Ma’am, with special support from Mr. Giridhar Sir and the dedicated team of teachers and staff, whose encouragement and smooth management made the program impactful.
Why Focus on Students?
Teenage years are often described as a “stormy phase” — a period of self-discovery, peer pressure, career anxiety, identity struggles, and emotional turbulence. It is no surprise that mental health concerns often surface during this stage. Addressing these concerns early is not just important; it is essential.
By engaging with students at this age, we hope to plant seeds of resilience, awareness, and emotional intelligence that will help them carry a healthier mindset into adulthood.
Understanding Suicide: Types and Reflections
In my session, I spoke about the different dimensions of suicide — not to sensationalize, but to help the students recognize the seriousness and complexity of the issue.
Euthanasia and the Story of Aruna Shanbaug
I shared the heart-wrenching case of Aruna Shanbaug, a nurse at Mumbai’s KEM Hospital, who lived in a vegetative state for decades. Her story opened discussions on mercy killing and the ethical questions around euthanasia. It was important for students to know how society debates such sensitive matters.Thoughtful Suicide in Switzerland & The Netherlands
Some countries permit assisted suicide under strict regulations. While this may sound intellectual or even philosophical, it also raises ethical dilemmas. Should society endorse such practices? What does it say about our responsibility toward human suffering?Religious or Cult-Driven Suicide
History is filled with tragic examples — like the Berua group incident in Delhi or the infamous Heaven’s Gate cult in California, where blind faith led to mass suicides. This was a reminder that uncritical belief, when combined with emotional vulnerability, can turn destructive.Altruistic Suicide
Sometimes, a person sacrifices their life for others. A mother shielding her child during an earthquake, or a soldier laying down his life for his country — these are acts of ultimate sacrifice. While noble, they remind us of the deep human capacity for love and protection.Egoistic or Distress Suicide
This is perhaps the most common and worrisome type. It emerges from loneliness, rejection, or an overwhelming sense of worthlessness. It is preventable — but only if recognized early and addressed with compassion.
Real Stories: Hope Beyond Despair
I also shared real-life stories of individuals who battled depression but overcame it with courage and support. These stories resonated with the students because they were raw and relatable. They reminded everyone that:
Depression is not weakness; it’s an illness.
Asking for help is not shameful; it’s brave.
Small steps — talking, seeking support, practicing self-care — can open the door to recovery.
Dr. Manoj’s Session: Learning Through Liveliness
While my talk provided the theoretical and reflective side, Dr. Manoj Kishore Nayak made the session dynamic with lively activities and role plays. The students enthusiastically participated, laughing, learning, and absorbing powerful lessons without even realizing it.
He emphasized tricks and techniques to fight depression — simple daily habits, breathing practices, and thought exercises. What touched everyone most was his reference to the Japanese concept of Ikigai — the reason for living. When young minds understand that their life has purpose, meaning, and direction, they are less likely to feel lost in despair.
Key Takeaways for Students
The joint session gave students a set of practical takeaways:
Emotional control: Learning to pause, breathe, and respond rather than react.
Talk it out: Sharing struggles with friends, teachers, or family instead of bottling them up.
Recognize warning signs: Noticing sudden withdrawal, extreme sadness, or self-harm talk in peers.
Build resilience: Failures are not the end — they are stepping stones.
Find your Ikigai: Pursue what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what can sustain you.
Gratitude and Reflections
The program would not have been possible without the encouragement of Principal Ma’am and the tireless efforts of Mr. Giridhar Sir. Their dedication to student welfare is truly inspiring. The presence of teachers and staff added warmth and reassurance, showing the students that their school is not just a place for academics but also a sanctuary for their well-being.
Why Such Sessions Matter
Suicide prevention is not about a single talk or a one-day event. It’s about creating an environment where mental health is discussed openly, emotions are respected, and help is easily accessible. Schools play a critical role because they shape not just intellect but also emotional maturity.
By bringing real stories, thought-provoking discussions, and interactive learning together, we hope to have left a lasting impression on the young hearts at DPS Damanjodi.
Final Thought: Sharing Hope
The message we left with the students was simple yet profound:
“Your life is valuable, your story is important, and your struggles are never bigger than your strength. Speak up, seek help, and remember — tomorrow always holds new possibilities.”
On this World Suicide Prevention Week, let us all promise to look out for each other, to be more compassionate listeners, and to spread awareness. After all, sometimes a small conversation can save a big life.
Special Thanks once again to Principal Sujata Ma’am, Mr. Giridhar Sir, and the DPS team for hosting us, and to the wonderful students whose openness made the session meaningful. Together, let us make conversations on mental health as natural as conversations on academics.
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