On World Suicide Prevention Day 2025, the District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), North Goa, under the District Hospital, organised “PsyExplore” at the State Institute of Health and Family Welfare (SIHFW), Mapusa.
The event featured a mental health quiz competition for higher secondary students to raise awareness and encourage dialogue on suicide prevention. Chief guest Dr Rajesh Dhume highlighted the theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide and Starting the Conversation,” urging students to understand the importance of early awareness.
A six-round quiz, conducted by Dr Gaurav Haldankar (Senior Psychiatrist, North Goa District Hospital), Dr Aditi Modak, and Bilvesh Mandalia (Junior Resident, IPHB), combined general knowledge with thought-provoking mental health scenarios. While competitive, the focus remained on promoting sensitivity towards psychological well-being.
In addition, Dr Tanvi Pednekar (Psychiatrist, DMHP North Goa) led a session on Psychological First Aid (PFA), explaining its three core principles – Look, Listen, and Link. She stressed their importance in supporting individuals in distress with timely care.
The quiz concluded with prize distribution. Sameer Shah and Manasv Khoraṭe from St Xavier’s HSS, Mapusa, won first place; Shambhavi Soman and Durva Shetye from Purushottam Walawalkar (Saraswat) HSS secured second; and Vihan Belekar with Rudolph Pereira from DMC PVS Sarojini Madhusudan Kushe HSS placed third. Winners received trophies and certificates, while all participants were recognised with certificates.
The event ended with a Vote of Thanks by psychosocial worker Pravin Chavan, who appreciated the enthusiasm of students and teachers, stressing the importance of such initiatives in building emotionally resilient youth.
