Jeevan Jamshedpur to observe World Suicide Prevention Day with series of competitions

Jamshedpur: In observance of World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, the city-based suicide prevention center, Jeevan, Jamshedpur is organising a series of activities and competitions aimed at raising awareness among school and college students about mental health and suicide prevention.

This year’s theme, “Changing the narrative on suicide – start the conversation,” seeks to encourage open discussions about mental health, suicide, and suicidal behaviour to help reduce the stigma surrounding these issues.

Among the key events is a rally, which college and schools are encouraged to organise between September 3 and September 10.

In addition to the rally, Jeevan will host various competitions on Saturday, August 31, at the RMS Khutadih school auditorium. These competitions include: Nukkad Natak: Teams of 6 to 8 participants will perform street plays conveying the message of this year’s theme. Each play should last no more than three minutes and must include two songs that highlight the importance of life and starting conversations about mental health. The plays will be performed in Hindi, and the use of props is encouraged.

T-shirt Painting: Participants will design T-shirts with slogans emphasizing the importance of mental health. Jeevan will provide the T-shirts, but participants are required to bring their own painting materials. Each participant will have one hour to complete their design, and they may choose to write slogans in English or Hindi.

Debate Competition: The debate will focus on the topic, “The effectiveness of Essential Mental Health Education in Educational Institutions.” Teams will consist of two participants, one speaking for and the other against the motion. The debate will be conducted in either English or Hindi, and each speaker will have two minutes.

Certificates will be awarded to all participants, and the top three winners in each category will receive prizes. The awards will be presented during the World Suicide Prevention Day programme on September 10, where the winning teams from the nukkad natak competition will also perform.