Take a minute, change a life!

Every year, 10th September is observed as the World Suicide Prevention Day all over the world. The day was first observed in 2003 as an initiative of the International Association for Suicide Prevention and endorsed by the World Health Organization. It aims at raising awareness that SUICIDE IS PREVENTABLE.
It is each individual’s responsibility in society to help prevent suicide and make the world better place to live in. Statistics say that every year more than 800,000 people die by suicide and up to 25 times as many make suicide attempt (WSPD website 2017). Behind the stories of those who have, for many different reasons, questioned the value of their lives. Therefore, as members of communities, it is our responsibility to reach out to those who may be struggling, check in with them, and encourage them to tell their stories in their own ways and at their own pace. Offering a gentle word of support and listening to their stories by not being judgmental, can make all the difference.
The significance of the day was marked by the Peer Helpers, DAISAN members and Y-VIA of Samtse Higher Secondary School under the dynamic leadership, guidance and support from our principal. School observed the World Suicide Day by staging a dramatization program to raise awareness that suicide is preventable to all the staff and students, School Management Board Chairman and other guests led by Hon’ble Dasho Dzongda as the Chief Guest.
Hon’ble Dasho Dzongda graced the day by giving the opening remarks in which his deep worry and concern was mentioned. Pertaining to the current issue of suicide, under Dasho’s the benevolent leadership, the Dzongkhag has formed a team comprising of the MSTF/CBSS Member Secretary (Dzongkhag legal officer), Deputy Chief Counsellor ( CBSS Coordinator), a Doctor and the Office Commandant of Royal Bhutan Police to advocate on the prevention and curb various social issues.
All of must know that, “Every Single Suicide is Preventable”. So, “Take a Minute, Change a life!”.
Tshering & Reena Thapa
DAISAN Coordinator & Deputy Chief Counsellor