Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 23: Srinivas University observed Suicide Prevention Day – “LIORA: My Light”, symbolising life and hope, at the City Campus, Pandeshwar, Mangaluru, on September 23. The programme aimed to spread awareness about suicide prevention, mental well-being, emotional support and the importance of reaching out to people facing difficult situations.
The programme was presided over by Dr A Srinivas Rao, honourable chancellor, Srinivas University and president, A Shama Rao Foundation, Mangaluru. He appreciated the initiative and said that creating awareness about suicide prevention and helping people who are going through difficult circumstances is an important social responsibility.
He emphasised that counselling is an effective means of supporting individuals in distress and helping them overcome difficult situations without taking harmful decisions. He stressed the need to create an environment where people feel comfortable seeking help when they need it.
Raghavendra, circle inspector, Pandeshwar, Mangaluru, was the chief guest, while Prof Dr Mithun S, Department of Psychiatry, SIMS&RC, was the special invitee and guest speaker. The programme was attended by members of the Board of Governors, vice-chancellor Dr K Satyanarayana Reddy, registrars, deans, heads of departments, faculty members and non-teaching staff.
Srinivas University Board of Governors trustee member Prof Er A Mitra S Rao highlighted the role of parents, teachers, police and society in guiding young people away from harmful habits and situations that could negatively affect their lives. She emphasised the importance of daana — giving — and observed that, in today's context, giving time and patiently listening to another person can itself be a valuable form of support.
She said that the younger generation often needs parents and elders who are willing to give them their time and, most importantly, a patient ear to hear their concerns without immediately offering suggestions or judgement.
Srinivas University Board of Governors Trustee member A Vijayalakshmi R Rao encouraged young people to learn how to face challenging situations and seek support rather than losing hope. She said that individuals should understand that difficult circumstances can be overcome by reaching out to others. She urged everyone to seek help when needed and, in turn, become a source of support for others.
Srinivas University Board of Governors Trustee member A Samana Rao said that students need mental and emotional support when they are going through difficult situations. She highlighted the role of the Wellness Centre at Srinivas University, which works towards promoting the overall well-being of students. She said that the observance of the day was an opportunity to spread awareness among students and encourage them to seek support whenever required.
Chief guest Raghavendra, circle inspector, Pandeshwar, spoke about the pressures associated with financial difficulties, loans and debt. He said that financial problems can create significant stress, but they should not be considered without solutions. He cautioned people about taking loans through unreliable digital lending applications and encouraged those facing financial or personal difficulties to approach the police, counsellors, mental-health professionals, family members or trusted friends for assistance. He stressed that there is a solution to every difficult situation and that people should seek help and face their problems rather than taking an irreversible step.
Prof Dr Mithun S from SIMS&RC emphasised that everyone has a role in helping others through difficult times. He encouraged the participants to understand that people facing emotional distress are not alone and that friends, family members and support systems are available to help. He urged individuals to speak openly, reach out for support and learn to recognise when someone around them may need help.
As part of the awareness initiative, reels making and variety competitions were organised for students to encourage creative participation and help spread the message of hope, support and mental well-being among the student community. The activities provided students with an opportunity to express their thoughts creatively and contribute to creating greater awareness about the importance of emotional well-being and seeking help when needed.
The programme began with a welcome address by Mahima Saji and was compered by Rachna Ruthu of the Department of Psychology. Sulthana Raj proposed the vote of thanks.