A grave concern for life

"Would three of my Facebook friends please copy and repost? I’m trying to demonstrate that Someone Is Always Listening if you need help.#SuicideAwareness."

Does the above message strike a bell? If not, let us refresh your memory:  In a gnawing case of 16.4 suicides per 100,000 women, and 25.8 cases for men (As per WHO reports) in India, the need for suicide awareness has reached an all-time high. Gauging the need to illuminate the importance of the same, the social media campaign has found takers across the globe. We speak to a volley of young Bengalureans who've been an active part of the awareness campaign to tell us more...

“Social media is one of the biggest influencers today and taking a stand for issues such as suicide awareness is very important. I know people who have had suicidal thoughts due to certain pressures they faced at some point. It needs to be reiterated that there is help available from not only their friends but strangers on the Internet.   And that's what I want to help accomplish through this campaign — to let people know they can approach me and I will lend a ear and try and get them whatever help I can offer,” opines Supriya Narain, a 24 year old corporate employee.

While the whole concept revolves around how those tiny drops contribute to making an ocean, Nithya J Rao, a theatre artiste and psychologist tells us, “I’ve been actively involved with suicide-related works. The idea struck when a friend from the US posted it. I found the idea to be extremely motivating, especially because people with mental trauma are often found online but not at a therapist’s! Also, It takes zero effort to let someone on your profile to know you care. A lending ear is a lot powerful than you thought. So, this is one way people can actually contribute without investing time or money.”

With the repost idea garnering popularity, Bengalureans are showing their support, albeit an underlying nudge to go a step further. Sharing his views on the same, Nitin Hajela, a management consultant says, “Though it’s a powerful channel to draw attention,  there needs to be more dimensions to the idea. Those willing to lend a ear should take charge. If you are not willing to spend a considerable amount of time to the people who approach you or aren't comfortable  for a one on one conversation, it's a better idea to steer clear. Perceive this as a channel to get started, and then begin to do your bit. That’s the essence of it all.”