On 10th October 2025, St Aloysius Gonzaga School observed World Mental Health Day with a focused programme on Suicide Prevention under the theme “Suicide Prevention: Community-Based Gatekeeper Training.”
This initiative, led by MSc Counselling students from Roshni Nilaya, Mangaluru, aimed to empower students of Class IX with essential knowledge and skills to recognise warning signs of suicide and to intervene effectively. The counselling students shared a profound message of hope, emphasizing that “Together we can save lives.”
They encouraged reflection and discussion among students by asking, “When you feel sad, what helps you feel better?” — inspiring open conversations on emotional well-being and coping strategies. A key takeaway from the session was that prevention is possible; suicide can be prevented through timely intervention, awareness, and community support.
The training highlighted the vital role of individuals as gatekeepers—those who can identify and support persons in distress. It reinforced the importance of early recognition, empathy, and collective responsibility in promoting mental health. The event successfully fostered awareness among young Gonzagaites about suicide prevention and the enduring power of hope.