The District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), East Jaintia Hills District, in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), East Jaintia Hills District, today observed World Suicide Prevention Day 2026 at Rymbai Government Higher Secondary School, East Jaintia Hills District.
This year’s programme was held under the global theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” aiming to break stigmas, inspire open conversations, and raise awareness about mental health and legal support systems.
The programme was attended by District Malaria Officer, East Jaintia Hills District Dr C.S. Bareh in the presence of Deputy Legal Aid Defence Counsel, East Jaintia Hills District, Smt. K Challam, Psychiatric Social Worker, District Mental Health Programme(DMHP), East Jaintia Hills District, Smt. Thaiwan Kyndiah and Assistant Case Registry, District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), East Jaintia Hills District, Smt. Ibanri Myria, teachers, students and others.
In his speech, District Malaria Officer, East Jaintia Hills District, Dr. C. S. Bareh, while speaking about mental health issues, highlighted the importance of early intervention, recognizing warning signs and fostering a supportive environment to change how society views and talks about mental health crises.
Meanwhile, Deputy Legal Aid Defence Counsel, East Jaintia Hills District, Smt. K. Challam spoke at length on the availability of legal aid even as she educated the gathering on the roles and services provided by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), East Jaintia Hills District emphasizing that legal assistance and rehabilitation support are accessible to those in vulnerable circumstances.
The programme also featured a drawing and slogan writing competition on the theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” where students actively participated making the programme a success. Prizes were distributed to all the winners and participants who took part in the event.
Subsequently, all dignitaries and students took a solemn pledge to commit themselves towards promoting mental health awareness and supporting individuals experiencing distress.
