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Chandigarh Fights Suicide Stigma with Skills
10 Sep
Summary
- Vocational training launched for suicide prevention patients.
- Program targets youth aged 14 to 45 for skill development.
- Experts urge open dialogue to combat mental health stigma.
Ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, 2026, experts in Chandigarh are advocating for open dialogue and early intervention to address suicide and mental health. The current year's theme, "Changing the Narrative on Suicide," emphasizes that suicide arises from a complex interplay of social, familial, personal, and financial challenges, not solely mental illness.
To aid in recovery, PGIMER's psychiatry department has collaborated with the Chandigarh Skill Development Mission. This initiative provides free vocational training for patients aged 14 to 45. The program includes ITI-backed, online, and offline courses designed to impart skills and link participants with job opportunities, thereby fostering confidence and independence.
Prevention efforts are also active in educational institutions, with PGIMER teams conducting outreach in schools and colleges. These sessions focus on identifying warning signs, emotional regulation, and substance abuse prevention. Project SAATHI, launched in January 2026, further supports the holistic wellness of government school students.
Mental health professionals highlight key warning signs like social isolation, mood shifts, and discussions of death. They stress the importance of early recognition and open, non-judgmental conversations. PGIMER also operates as a regional center for the Tele-MANAS helpline, aiming to train counselors and address service gaps.
A street play is scheduled for September 10, 2026, at Panjab University to raise public awareness. Experts reiterate that continuous support and dialogue are crucial, extending beyond a single day to dismantle misconceptions and improve understanding of mental health professions.
