On the occasion of World Suicide Prevention Day, speakers emphasized the urgent need to strengthen public awareness on suicide prevention, ensure accessible and timely mental health services, and foster a compassionate and supportive environment for individuals experiencing emotional distress and psychological crisis.
The call was made on Thursday at a discussion session held at Ashulia Model Town, Savar, jointly organized by Monojotno Outdoor Counseling Centre, Dhaka Ahsania Mission Female Drug Addiction Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre, and Mayer Hashi Mental Health Care Centre, according to a press release.
The program was organized in observance of this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” which highlights the importance of changing the way society understands, discusses, and responds to suicide.
The keynote presentation was delivered by Rakhi Ganguly, Senior Psychologist and Addiction Professional, Health Sector, Dhaka Ahsania Mission. The discussion was joined by Dr. Sumaiya Binte Jalil, Psychiatrist, and Dr. Naila Parveen, Assistant Director, Health and Nutrition Sector, Dhaka Ahsania Mission.
In her keynote presentation, Rakhi Ganguly highlighted findings from an analysis of data involving 322 female patients between 2021 and 2023. The analysis found a significant association between suicidal thoughts and attempts, substance use disorders, and various mental health conditions. Most of the patients were aged between 15 and 29 years. The study found a history of suicidal thoughts among 65% of the patients and suicide attempts among 38%.
Dr. Sumaiya Binte Jalil emphasized that individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or severe psychological distress should be approached with empathy rather than judgment or blame.
She stressed the importance of listening attentively, taking warning signs seriously, and connecting individuals with appropriate professional support.
Dr. Naila Parveen said suicide prevention cannot be addressed by any single individual or institution.
She emphasized the need for coordinated efforts involving families, educational institutions, workplaces, healthcare providers, and the wider community to create a supportive environment and strengthen suicide prevention efforts.
The speakers emphasized that suicide should not be surrounded by silence or stigma. Awareness, compassion, connection, and timely professional support are essential to saving lives. A supportive conversation and timely intervention can make a critical difference for someone experiencing a crisis.