World Mental Health Day 2019

The Department of Psychology celebrated World Mental Health Day on 10th Oct 2019 with an awareness program focusing on the theme of Suicide Prevention. Also, the program was hosted in collaboration with Santhula Trust Hospital, Koothattukulam, and Snehanilayam Special School, Kakkanad. The program was inaugurated by District Collector Shri Suhas S who was the Chief Guest and by the Guest of Honor Fr Edward George, Director, Santhula Trust Hospital.  Dr. Tessy Antony, Vice Principal presided over the function.

Following the opening, an awareness program was held at Lulu Mall and at Marine Drive where the aim was to raise alertness of the rate of suicide around the world and the role that each of us can play to help prevent it. Also, a platform was given to the special needs children of Snehanilayam to air their talents.

The Programs Included

• Siddha – Theme Dance on Suicide by the students of the Psychology Department
• Athmaakalde Kumbasaaram – A Street Play by the staff of Santhula Trust Hospital
• Chuvadukal – Chendamelam and Fusion Dance by the mentally challenged children of Snehanilayam Special School.

First of all the aim of the program was to highlight the need to address mental health issues that lead to suicide. Also, to convey that sometimes simply reaching out to check in on someone or talking to significant others during times of stress can advance a sense of teamwork and togetherness in difficult times. The idleness of committing suicide was stressed in the street play and theme dance. The program was well-received in both the public forums. Leaflets and brochures to create awareness about suicide prevention were also distributed to the general public.