Kasaragod, September 17, 2026: The Department of Social Work, Central University of Kerala (CUK), observed World Suicide Prevention Day through ‘Koode’, a programme aimed at promoting awareness on suicide prevention, mental health and the importance of timely support.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Siddu P. Algur inaugurated the programme and emphasised the importance of creating supportive environments where individuals can speak openly about emotional difficulties and seek help without fear or stigma. Dr. Nagalingam M presided over the programme. Dr. Jilly John, Head of the Department of Social Work, delivered the welcome address.
Dr. Ragesh G., Psychiatric Social Worker, Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS), Kozhikode, led an awareness session on ‘Suicide Prevention among Youths’. The session focused on challenges faced by young people and highlighted the importance of recognising signs of emotional distress, supportive communication, early identification, professional intervention and collective responsibility in suicide prevention.
A panel discussion on mental health and suicide prevention brought together professionals from the fields of mental health, social policing and media. The panellists were Aswathy, Counsellor, National Mental Health Programme; Ramakrishnan, Coordinator, Social Policing Division, Kasaragod; and George Poikayil, Journalist. The discussion was moderated by Murshida P.K., second-year MSW student.
Students organised activity stalls focusing on mental health awareness, emotional well-being and suicide prevention. Students, faculty members and research scholars from various departments participated in the programme. The ‘Koode’ programme provided an opportunity for students to engage in open discussions on mental health and suicide prevention. The programme highlighted the role of social support, empathetic communication and timely professional intervention in responding to emotional distress and preventing suicide.