Jamshedpur, September 10: The Department of Psychiatry, Tata Main Hospital (TMH), observed World Suicide Prevention Day with a series of awareness and engagement initiatives aimed at fostering open conversations on mental health, reducing stigma, encouraging timely help-seeking, and strengthening community understanding of suicide prevention.

Observed globally each year, World Suicide Prevention Day serves as an important reminder that suicide is preventable, and that early recognition, compassionate support, and timely professional intervention can save lives. Marking the occasion, TMH organized programmes focused on increasing awareness, promoting resilience, and empowering individuals to seek help without fear or hesitation.

The day-long observance commenced with a formal inaugural session and welcome address by Dr. Manoj Kumar Sahoo, Head of the Department of Psychiatry, psychiatry Tata Main Hospital, and Professor, Manipal Tata Medical College (MTMC). The programme was graced by Dr. Vinita Singh, General Manager, Medical Services, Tata Steel, as the Chief Guest. Other distinguished dignitaries included Dr. Ashok Sunder, Chief Medical, Indoor Services; Dr. Mamta Rath Datta, Chief Medical, Support Services and Dr. Hridesh Sahani, Medical Superintendent and Chief Consultant and Head, Radiology, TMH.

A key highlight of the event was the youth-focused panel discussion titled “#Let’s Talk: Mental Health Beyond the Hashtags.” Reflecting the importance of engaging young voices in mental health advocacy, the panel brought together representatives of the younger generation, including an MBBS Intern, a DNB Resident Doctor, a Nursing Staff member, and a Student Counsellor. The session provided a platform for candid and meaningful conversations on mental health challenges faced by today's youth, the pressures of navigating an increasingly digital world, and the importance of seeking support when needed. 

The panellists shared perspectives from their respective fields while discussing the identification of warning signs of emotional distress and suicide risk, crisis intervention, pathways to professional support, and the vital role of peers, families, and communities in offering timely support. The discussion reinforced the message that open conversations, empathy, and early intervention can make a meaningful difference in preventing suicide and promoting psychological well-being.

The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks, acknowledging the valuable participation and contributions of all dignitaries, speakers, and attendees.

In the evening, medical services division conducted an online panel discussion for Tata Steel employees titled “Mental Health Matters.” Moderated by Dr. Manoj Kumar Sahoo, the session featured an eminent panel comprising Dr. Akhilesh Sharma, Additional Professor, Department of Psychiatry, PGI Chandigarh; Dr. Deepak Rout, Associate Professor, Psychiatry, Manipal Tata Medical College; and Dr. Dyuthy R, Associate Specialist, Tata Main Hospital. The discussion explored contemporary mental health concerns in an increasingly demanding and fast-paced world. Panellists deliberated on common psychological challenges, practical coping strategies, resilience-building, and the misconceptions that often prevent individuals from seeking professional help.

The programme concluded with closing remarks by Dr. Vinita Singh, General Manager, Medical Services, Tata Steel, emphasized that mental health is an integral part of overall well-being and that seeking help should be viewed as a sign of strength rather than weakness.