World Suicide Prevention Day 2025 was observed at multiple institutions in Dimapur.
DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 10 (MExN): World Suicide Prevention Day 2025 was observed at multiple institutions in Dimapur, with programs highlighting awareness, skill-building, and community responsibility in suicide prevention.
At North East Christian University, Burma Camp, the Psychology Program organized an experiential skill training program under the theme “Bystander to First Responder – An Experiential Skill Training Program Focused on Changing the Narrative on Suicide.” A student-produced video depicted the silent struggles of a Grade 12 student who died by suicide, highlighting warning signs in school, strained family interactions, sibling tensions, relationship challenges, and social withdrawal. The video was widely shared on the program’s Instagram page.
The program opened with Angel Ngullie, Assistant Professor, discussing suicide statistics and early warning signs. An interactive session by Lanusenla helped participants identify hidden indicators of distress from the video. Temsurenla Aier highlighted active listening, empathy, and creating safe spaces for dialogue. Postgraduate students shared information on mental health support in government hospitals and community services. The program concluded with practical strategies for parents, teachers, and peers to provide timely support, reduce stigma, and strengthen protective factors.
At the North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR), in collaboration with Gracious Life Foundation, the day was observed at the Peace Centre, Chümoukedima. Sr Rena Hassa, MSW Semester I, emphasized the role of social workers in suicide prevention and urged peers to foster compassionate communities, recognize early signs of depression, and respond empathetically. She appealed to participants to become proactive advocates of hope and extend support to those in distress. The program was chaired by Athia Beso, BSW Semester I.
Meanwhile, at St. Joseph University, the Department of Psychology and Counselling, in collaboration with the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), organized an awareness program under the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.” Loivitoli Awomi, Counselling Psychologist and Founder of Lapiye Center for Mental Health and Well-Being, presented data on rising suicide rates in Nagaland over the past five years.
She stressed shifting the discourse from stigma to empathy, advocating early intervention, systemic reforms, and building supportive networks across schools, churches, and communities. She also highlighted the negative impact of societal pressures on youth and urged a redefinition of success that values emotional well-being and resilience. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Viani, UG 3rd Semester.
