UditVani,Jamshedpur : Tata Main Hospital’s (TMH) Department of Psychiatry organized a comprehensive awareness campaign under the global theme “Changing the Narrative” to mark World Suicide Prevention Day. The initiative aimed to dismantle the stigma surrounding suicide, foster open dialogue, and highlight the urgent need for systemic change in how society approaches mental health.
The day began with a symbolic “Walk for Life” walkathon, flagged off by Dr. Vinita Singh, General Manager, Medical Services, Tata Steel. She was joined by senior management, doctors, and staff members from TMH, who walked together to demonstrate the hospital’s commitment to community awareness and suicide prevention.
The formal program commenced with an inaugural ceremony and lamp-lighting. Dr. Vinita Singh graced the occasion as Chief Guest, while Dr. H.C. Bandhu, Dean In-charge, Manipal Tata Medical College, joined as Guest of Honour. The event was attended by senior medical professionals including Dr. Ashok Sunder, Chief Medical Indoor Services, TMH; Dr. Mamta Rath Datta, Chief Medical Support Services, Tata Steel; and other distinguished doctors from TMH and Manipal Tata Medical College.
In her keynote address, Dr. Vinita Singh lauded the Psychiatry team for their dedicated efforts in addressing mental health challenges. She stressed that every individual’s contribution is vital in combating stigma and promoting compassion, dialogue, and community support.
A thought-provoking skit on suicide prevention by the College of Nursing, TMH, served as a poignant highlight of the program. This was followed by an insightful panel discussion on “Changing the Narrative: Building a Community of Support for Suicide Prevention,” moderated by Dr. Manoj Sahoo, Head of Psychiatry, TMH. Panelists included Dr. Mamta Rath Datta, Sanjay Mishra (Senior Resident Editor, Prabhat Khabar), Ms. Upama De (Principal, College of Nursing, TMH), Dr. Harshita Biswas (Clinical Psychologist, Psychiatry, TMH), and Dr. Leela Sameer (Associate Specialist, Medicine).
The panel underscored the urgent need to break the silence around suicide by encouraging open conversations on mental health. They called for building a culture of empathy, accessibility, and support, where individuals feel represented and empowered to seek help.
The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony for the Digital Art Competition on Suicide Prevention, followed by a heartfelt vote of thanks, reaffirming the community’s commitment to mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
