Port Blair, Sept. 15: Considering the high rates of suicides in the islands, a special drive against suicide namely "AASHA - LET'S SAY YES TO LIFE" has been launched. The first session was held at VKV School, Port Mout and was presented by Shri. Arshdeep Singh Panwar, DANIPS, SDPO Bambooflat.
About 60 students from class 10th to 12th and staffs of VKV Port Mout were sensitized about the importance of mental health, factors that contribute to suicidal thoughts, warning signs that may lead to suicide, how to seek help, where to seek help, how to overcome failures etc.
The participants were encouraged to promote the importance of mental health among their families and loved ones. They were also advised to look for early signs of mental distress, suicidal warning signs, and the action to be taken upon that.
The general public are requested to pass on any information pertaining to people with mental health problems or people with suicidal risks on the following telephone no. 1800-599-0019 (Mental Health Rehabilitation Helpline
launched by Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment), 112. “EACH LIFE MATTERS”.