Banaras Hindu University to Organise Week-long Campaign on Suicide Prevention

A week-long campaign is being organized by Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in advance of September 10, 2024, which is Suicide Prevention Day. Starting on September 4, the week-long campaign aims to interact with students at different levels in order to raise awareness and encourage behavior that seeks help and overall wellbeing.

“Changing the Narrative on Suicide – Start the Conversation” is this week’s theme. In keeping with the concept, the campaign will feature activities like poster-making, open mic nights, penning slogans, interactive talks, plays, and other awareness-raising events.

According to a BHU press release, “it advocates for transforming the perception of suicide from one of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.”

The campaign will involve students from the main campus, South Campus at Barkachha, and university schools. It is being led by the Dean of Students and coordinated by the Associate Dean of Students (Student Development) and the Student Counsellor, with active contributions from Dr. SRK Fellows.

Through this campaign, BHU reaffirms its dedication to educating students and the wider community about mental health signs, available resources, and the importance of seeking help. The team behind this initiative believes that by addressing and challenging the stigma surrounding mental illness and suicide, individuals will be encouraged to seek support without fear of judgment.