UGC requests higher education institutions to take action as per national suicide prevention strategy

NEW DELHI: The ministry of health and family has formulated national suicide prevention strategy to promote health and well being. University Grants Commission (UGC) has requested higher education institutions (HEIs) to takes action as per the strategies provided.

The 'Mental Heath Policy 2014' and 'Mental Healthcare Act 2017' provided a legal framework to fortify efforts to promote well-being in the nation and address suicide as a public health issue. However, suicide has still emerged to be a significant public health concern worldwide and in India.

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The official strategy document shows statistics of the demographics, methods and reasons of suicide in the Indian population along with a set of prevention strategies to decrease such numbers. Enhancing capacity of health care services to provide suicide prevention services, develop a community resilience and societal support for suicide prevention and reducing stigma associated with suicidal behaviors are a few of the goals mentioned in the document. On of the primary objective of this initiative is to integrate mental well-being curriculum in all educational institutions within the next 8 years.

"The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has formulated National Suicide Prevention Strategy which utilises the guidance established by National and International documents for mental health and suicide prevention," said the UGC notice. Those interested in reading the document can find it on main.mohfw.gov.in.

If you, or anyone you know, needs help, AASRA has a list of resources here: http://www.aasra.info/helpline.html