Block panchayat's suicide prevention clinic becomes a beacon of hope

"CONCRETE structures and amenities apart, isn't saving a life in distress a nobler task for a local body?" asks Nileshwar block panchayat president Madhavan Maniyara, speaking about the block panchayat's Suicide Prevention Clinic at the Cheruvathur Community Health Centre.

- AROCKIARAJ J @Kasaragod

Launched in 2022 as part of the block panchayat's annual plan, the clinic has helped counsel over 400 people out of suicidal thoughts. The initiative aims to curb the rising suicide rate, promote mental well-being, empower people to tackle their problems, and strengthen family bonds.

Initially, there was reluctance among people to open up and visit the clinic, but this has changed. The centre now receives an average of 25-30 visitors a month, including teenagers, says the president.