In an effort to address the critical issue of mental health among students and combat the rising concerns of self-harm and suicide, Delhi’s Directorate of Education has launched a Suicide Prevention Week, which runs from September 10 to 16. The overarching theme of the campaign is ‘Creating Hope through Action,’ with a strong focus on reducing suicidal ideation and breaking the stigma surrounding seeking help. Let’s look at everything that has been planned for the week.
Engaging Activities for All
Throughout this week-long initiative, all Delhi Government schools are actively participating, with a wide range of activities aimed at students, teachers, parents, and other stakeholders. These activities include audio messages, assembly talks, success stories, videos, slogan writing, drawing competitions, stress management talks, street plays, and oath ceremonies. That’s not all.
Recognizing Student Participation
Students actively taking part in these activities will receive appreciation certificates, encouraging their involvement in promoting mental health awareness. The campaign aims not only to inform but also to inspire action, fostering a more supportive environment within schools. What is the better way to empower than through education?
Empowering Through Education
Educational and vocational guidance counselors and teacher counselors play a vital role in these efforts, conducting talks in school assemblies to address self-harm and suicide prevention. Inspirational success stories, handpicked by school leaders, are shared with students through WhatsApp or in classrooms, providing powerful messages of hope and resilience.
Creative Expression and Awareness
The campaign also embraces creative outlets for students. Slogan writing activities engage students in classes 9 to 12, while drawing competitions involve students in classes 6 to 8, all centering around the theme “Jeevan Anmol Hai” (Life is Precious).
Support Beyond the Classroom
For parents and school management committee members, stress management sessions conducted by counselors offer valuable insights into managing the pressures of today’s society. Additionally, street plays and role-play activities serve as creative mediums to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention among students.
Community Involvement and Commitment
All schools within the Directorate of Education’s jurisdiction are encouraged to participate actively, emphasizing the importance of a collective effort in supporting mental health and suicide prevention in schools. District heads of education are also encouraged to join by visiting two schools each day during the week, demonstrating their commitment to fostering hope through action.
