On September 11, 2023, the Leo Club of Kathmandu Himalayas Patan took a significant step toward addressing one of society's most pressing yet often overlooked challenges. In observance of World Suicide Prevention Day, the club successfully conducted a "Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness Program" at Arunima College, Boudha. The hour-long session, running from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, aimed to demystify mental health issues, provide practical support strategies, and promote suicide prevention among the student community.
The timing of this initiative couldn't have been more relevant. In a world where mental health challenges have been exacerbated by numerous social pressures, academic stress, and the lingering effects of the pandemic, young people are particularly vulnerable. This program represented the club's commitment to breaking the silence surrounding mental health and creating safe spaces for open discussions.
Expert Guidance and Institutional Support
The program benefited immensely from the expertise of keynote speaker Parbati Shrestha from TPO Nepal (Transcultural Psychosocial Organization), who shared invaluable insights on recognizing warning signs, initiating difficult conversations, and accessing mental health resources. Her presentation combined professional knowledge with compassionate understanding, making complex mental health concepts accessible to the student audience.
The event's success was further enhanced by the coordinated efforts of Leo Raghav Ghimire, who served as the program coordinator, ensuring the session's smooth execution and maximum impact. Additionally, the presence and support of Leo District Council 325 R District Vice President Leo Lalan Mahato underscored the importance of this initiative within the broader Leo community service framework.
Arunima College's administration played a crucial role in facilitating this important conversation, with Principal Ishwori Prasad Lamichhane and College Coordinator Keshav Prasad Joshi demonstrating outstanding leadership by prioritizing their students' mental wellbeing and creating an environment conducive to such educational initiatives.
Impact and Engagement
Throughout the session, students actively engaged with the material presented, asking thoughtful questions and sharing perspectives that enriched the discussion. The program covered essential topics including:
- Understanding the spectrum of mental health and illness
- Recognizing warning signs in oneself and others
- Developing effective communication strategies for supporting peers
- Building personal resilience and coping mechanisms
- Accessing professional help and resources in Nepal
- Challenging stigma and misconceptions around mental health issues
Many participants expressed that this was their first opportunity to discuss mental health openly in an educational setting, highlighting the persistent taboo surrounding these issues in Nepalese society and the critical need for such awareness programs.
A Continuing Commitment
This successful program represents just one component of the Leo Club of Kathmandu Himalayas Patan's ongoing commitment to addressing community health needs holistically. By focusing on mental health, the club acknowledges that true wellbeing encompasses both physical and psychological dimensions.
The Leo Club extends profound gratitude to all club members, volunteers, partners, and participants who contributed to making this program impactful. Each person's involvement—whether organizing logistics, participating in discussions, or simply showing up to learn—helped create a more compassionate and informed community ready to support those struggling with mental health challenges.
As we continue building a better tomorrow, initiatives like these remind us that awareness is the first step toward positive change. The conversations started at Arunima College will hopefully ripple outward, encouraging more open discussions about mental health throughout the community and ultimately saving lives through understanding, compassion, and timely intervention.
