Among the three leading causes of death in the World, suicide ranks third place. With a view to bring down the incidence of suicide, The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) observe World Suicide Prevention day every year.
“Connect, Communicate, Care" was chosen to be this year’s theme. These three words are at the heart of suicide prevention. Fostering connections, open communication and caring attitude are important in dealing with suicide. In order to generate awareness regarding this aspect The World Suicide Prevention Day 2016 was observed at Vishnumurthy High school, Kodibettu on 20.09.2016 between 2.00 pm and 4.00 pm. Ms. Teena Joyce Castelino, Second year PBBSc Nursing student, Manipal College of Nursing, Manipal addressed the gathering by introducing the theme of the day. She also emphasized on various strategies to prevent suicide. 

Overall the programme was organized by the faculty, Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Manipal College of Nursing, Manipal along with the II year Post Basic B.Sc Nursing students. The audience were 55 students of Vishnumurthy High school, Kodibettu and their teachers. 

The formal programme was started at 2.00 pm. A role-play based on the theme was enacted by the II year PBBSc (N) students which was well appreciated by all. Ms. Savitha, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Psychiatric Nursing, spoke on factors leading to suicide and its prevention. Mr.Anantha Padmanabha Bhat, Senior Teacher of the school expressed his gratitude and appreciated the efforts taken by the faculty and students. Many students expressed their views on importance of prevention of suicide among school children. Program ended at 4.00 pm with vote of thanks by Ms. Pallavi, II year PBBSc (N) student.