A program was organized at Sri Ramakrishna Degree College, Nandyal, on the occasion of World Suicide Prevention Day. The event was attended by prominent guests including Dr. Madhusudhan Rao, Senior ENT Surgeon and President of IMA Nandyal, and Dr. Arifa Bhanu, Neuropsychiatrist from GST Hospital. Also present were the Chairman of the college, Prof. G. Ramakrishna Reddy, faculty members, and students.

The program began with a keynote address by Prof. G. Ramakrishna Reddy, who stated that the Indian Medical Association (IMA) is conducting this awareness program across various colleges with the objective of educating students about suicide prevention. He emphasized that the primary goal of this initiative is to spread awareness and reduce instances of suicide among the youth. He expressed gratitude to the chief guests — Dr. Madhusudhan Rao and Dr. Arifa Bhanu — for taking time out of their busy schedules to address the students.

Prof. Reddy reflected on how, in today’s times, even minor problems are pushing young people towards suicidal thoughts and actions. He referenced the epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama, despite facing the major setback of being denied the throne and sent to exile, chose patience and positivity to move forward. Likewise, students should face challenges with resilience and courage, recognizing that their existence is valuable not only to themselves but to society as well. He urged students to spread awareness among their peers as a social responsibility.

Chief Guest Dr. Madhusudhan Rao addressed the gathering, highlighting the significance of observing World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10th every year. He pointed out that lack of awareness is the key reason for the increase in suicides, and that creating awareness is the main goal of this event.

He stated that every life given by God has a purpose, and one must strive to fulfill that purpose instead of giving up over trivial issues. He emphasized that many suicides are not due to major problems, but due to small matters — often just because someone said “no” or due to momentary disappointment.

Dr. Rao outlined three major causes of suicide:

1. Expectations – Setting unrealistic expectations and losing hope when things don’t go as planned.
2. Comparison – Constantly comparing oneself to others and feeling inadequate.
3. Blaming oneself – Focusing on what one lacks and falling into a cycle of self-blame.

To prevent suicide, he suggested three approaches:

1. Acceptance – Acknowledge and accept the problem.
2. Adjustment – Learn to adapt and stay patient through challenges.
3. Change – Continuously work on changing oneself to better cope with situations.

He encouraged students to consult medical professionals rather than resort to suicide when facing problems. He reminded them that they are the future of the nation, and such actions could hinder the country’s progress. He urged everyone to raise awareness and act responsibly.

Dr. Arifa Bhanu, another chief guest, expressed concern that while people discuss many things, mental health and suicide prevention are often neglected. In recent times, suicides have increased, mostly triggered by minor reasons such as failing an exam or receiving low marks. She emphasized that stress and hopelessness are driving these actions.

Dr. Arifa noted that suicide not only ends a life but also deeply affects the family and loved ones left behind. She called for a sense of purpose in life and urged students to act in ways that contribute to the development of society. She encouraged everyone to raise awareness and prevent such tragedies.

Both Dr. Madhusudhan Rao and Dr. Arifa Bhanu interacted with the students, answering their questions and clarifying doubts regarding mental health and suicide prevention.

Ms. Ratna Ramireddy, in her address, emphasized that the program was conducted to raise awareness around the theme: “Awareness, Early Support, and Building Resilience.” She pointed out that people today are relying more on Artificial Intelligence (AI) than their own thinking abilities, leading to a loss of reasoning, which in turn increases stress and suicide tendencies. She called for greater awareness and collective effort to reduce the incidence of suicides.

The guests of honor, Dr. Madhusudhan Rao and Dr. Arifa Bhanu, were felicitated with gratitude and respect by the college management.
The event concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.