A sensitization session on Suicide Prevention was conducted for the students of Psychology from Grade XI and XII. The session aimed to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and to equip students with the knowledge and skills to identify and respond to signs of emotional distress.

The discussion began with a reflection activity on the question, “What thoughts come to your mind when you are suicidal?” This helped students understand the inner world of someone experiencing such thoughts—feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, worthlessness, or being a burden. The facilitator -Mr. Viren Rajput (from Connecting, NGO) emphasized that acknowledging these thoughts without judgment is the first step in prevention.

The session highlighted the warning signs and red flags, such as withdrawal from social activities, sudden mood changes, giving away possessions, or talking about death. Students were also informed about risk factors, including academic pressure, relationship difficulties, family conflict, bullying, trauma, and untreated mental health conditions.

A major focus was on how to help a peer in distress. Students were encouraged to:

• Listen empathetically without offering premature solutions.
• Encourage open conversations and validate the person’s feelings.
• Connect them with trusted adults, counsellors, or professional support.
• The role of listening was emphasized as a powerful tool, as it provides the person a sense of being understood and not alone in their struggles.

Finally, students were made aware of available helplines and resources for immediate assistance, reinforcing that help is always accessible.

The session concluded with an important reminder: Suicide is preventable. Each one of us has the capacity to make a difference by noticing signs, reaching out, and extending support with compassion.