Guest Lecture on Suicide Prevention at TMU: Changing the Narrative on Mental Health
Teerthanker Mahaveer University (TMU), Moradabad, successfully organised a Guest Lecture on Suicide Prevention titled “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” on 20th November 2025. The event aimed to spread awareness, reduce stigma, and equip nursing students with essential knowledge and skills related to suicide prevention.
The programme was conducted under the guidance of Dr S.P. Subashini (Dean, College of Nursing), Dr Jasline M (Principal, TMCON), and Prof. Ram Niwas (Vice-Principal, TMCON). The session was hosted by Mrs Ekjot Kaur, Associate Professor, and Mr Allan Singh, PG Tutor, Department of Mental Health Nursing.
The guest speaker, Dr Prerana Gupta, MD (Psychiatry), TMU Hospital, delivered an insightful and impactful session focusing on the urgent need for suicide prevention awareness in today’s society.
Importance of Suicide Prevention Awareness Among Nursing Students
The event witnessed the participation of around 175 attendees, including undergraduate students, postgraduate students, and faculty members. The programme began with a welcome address followed by a traditional lamp lighting ceremony.
In her opening remarks, Principal Dr Jasline M emphasised the importance of changing societal attitudes toward suicide. She highlighted that open conversations, empathy, and awareness are critical steps in addressing mental health challenges. She encouraged students to actively support peers and create a safe environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking help.
Vice-Principal Prof. Ram Niwas motivated attendees to become mental health advocates and contribute toward building a supportive community. During the session, Dr Prerana Gupta presented significant global and national statistics on suicide, referencing WHO 2021 data. She explained that suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among young individuals, with alarming numbers reported in India. Her lecture focused on understanding the causes, identifying risk factors, and implementing effective suicide prevention strategies.
She elaborated on major contributing factors such as academic pressure, emotional distress, substance abuse, and social isolation. Dr Gupta also discussed warning signs, including behavioural changes, withdrawal, and expressions of hopelessness, which healthcare professionals must identify early.
Furthermore, she highlighted the critical role of nurses in suicide prevention, emphasising early intervention, patient communication, and timely referral to mental health services. The session also stressed the importance of empathy, active listening, and reducing stigma in healthcare settings.
An interactive Q&A session allowed participants to gain clarity on suicide risk assessment, counselling techniques, and crisis intervention strategies, making the guest lecture on suicide prevention highly engaging and informative.
Conclusion
The Guest Lecture on Suicide Prevention at TMU proved to be a highly impactful initiative in promoting mental health awareness and education. The session not only enhanced participants’ understanding of suicide and its prevention but also empowered them to take proactive roles in supporting individuals in distress.
By focusing on awareness, early identification, and compassionate care, the event successfully reinforced the importance of changing the narrative around suicide. Such initiatives by TMU continue to play a vital role in preparing future healthcare professionals to address mental health challenges effectively and contribute toward a more supportive and stigma-free society.
