PU organizes open mic on world suicide prevention day

Chandigarh, September 9, 2019: The Centre for Human Rights and Duties, Panjab University, Chandigarh as part of the activities of Human Rights Volunteers’ Cell for Para Legal Services, organized World Suicide Prevention Day, here today in collaboration with State Legal Services Authority, U.T. Chandigarh at Student’s Centre, Panjab University.
As part of the event, the department organized open mic on suicide prevention on the theme “Umeed”. The event was organized to encourage students to share their thoughts and experiences on the issue through poetry, storytelling, music and rapping.
Dr.Namita Gupta, Chairperson, Centre for Human Rights and Duties while introducing the theme stated that “Suicidal behaviour is universal, knows no boundaries so it affects everyone. Preventing suicide is often possible and each one is a key player in its prevention. Hence, we all have to come together to prevent suicide among youth.”
Dr.Arzoo, Assistant Professor, Psychology, GMCH-Sector 32 elaborated on how to overcome suicidal thoughts, laid emphasis on communicating with the family and friends about the problems one faces in day-to-day life. She said that the best way to overcome any problem in life is to talk about it with your near and dear ones.
Mahavir Singh, Member Secretary, State Legal Services Authority, U.T. Chandigarh, motivated and encouraged the students to involve themselves in various activities to avoid stress and anxiety which sometimes lead to suicidal thoughts.
A leaflet on tips related to ‘Self-Care’ in situations of crisis prepared by Ms Surbhi alongwith other volunteers of the Human Rights Volunteers’ Cell for Para Legal Services was also circulated for wider dissemination among the youth. Dr Upneet Kaur Mangat, the Coordinator of the Cell stated that the objective was to generate awareness on how everyone can make a contribution in preventing suicide.
Jagminder, a Paracyclist shared his inspiring life story and motivated the students by stating that despite his handicap and various odds, he is successful in life today, as a cyclist and as an artist. He emphasized that we should always keep the hope alive
The event was a success with the participation of students from various departments of Panjab University.16 students shared their thoughts: Ajay Choudhary, Rajni, Ashima, Kartik, Hiteshi Arora, Rupali Kamboj, Rakesh Kumar and Pardeep Kumari shared poetry on the theme of the event. Jagminder, Gurmohan, Bhavya, and Prakhar shared their thoughts through stories. Bhavya, Jayantika and Neha sang songs to motivate the audience. Nand Kishore presented a rap and enthralled the audience with a self-composed song.