Sopore, Sep 10: On the occasion of World Suicide Prevention Day, prominent social activist and Chairman of Civil Society Sopore, Aashiq Hussain Zaki, addressed a gathering of youth in Sopore, focusing on the importance of suicide prevention.
As part of the event, Zaki gave participants an in-depth orientation on Gatekeeper Training, a vital programme aimed at equipping individuals with the skills to recognise and prevent suicide.
During his address, Aashiq Hussain Zaki stressed the significance of early detection of warning signs and symptoms related to suicidal thoughts. He spoke extensively about the risk factors, including changes in behavior, withdrawal from social circles, and emotional distress, which are key indicators highlighted in Gatekeeper Training.
He emphasised the importance of approaching individuals in crisis with empathy, offering them support, and guiding them towards professional help.
“Every individual can play a critical role in preventing suicide,” Zaki said, urging the youth to take responsibility as community members and be vigilant in identifying those in need of help. He also shed light on preventive measures, stressing the importance of mental health awareness, open communication, and the availability of support systems.
The session served as a vital platform for youth to engage in meaningful discussions on mental health, an issue of increasing concern in Kashmir.