The Rate of Suicides has decreased by 6% due to increased coping skills during the pandemic
Ambar Bhattacharya, Takmaa, 10th Sept 2021 : To commemorate the World Suicide Prevention Week, 1Life- a start-up Non-Profit, today organized an online awareness programme on positive mindset & mental health. Event was attended by Ms. Mithali Raj (Capt. Indian Woman Cricket Team), Mr. Susheel Borde (Head Reliance Innovation Centre and Ex CEO of Mumbai Indian Team), Dr. Swetha (Psychiatrist Asha Hospitals). An Online Mental health awareness programme with Padma Shree Mithali Raj, Captain of Indian Women Cricket Team Organized by 1LIFE 24/7 helpline on the eve of World Suicide Prevention Week from 5th to 10th September.
Ms. Mithali Raj in conversation with Mr Susheel Borde stressed the importance of managing mind – body connect in mental health. Positive affirmations, good sleep, positive self-talk are critical for work life balance. While celebrities are also vulnerable, focusing on constructive criticism, growth mind set and self-belief are the differentiators. As a leader she believes being compassionate, emotional giving, acknowledging people are essential traits. She reiterated that everyone should have support mechanism and seeking help is not sign of weakness but that of courage. Mithali Raj appreciated the efforts of 1Life, and importance in today’s world to give emotional support to the ones in need.
Dr Swetha mentioned there is a 6% decrease in suicide rates during pandemic which is good news to share. Covid 19 improved our coping skills and appreciated that more women have reached out for help to 1life during the 2nd wave.
Mr Susheel Borde appreciated 1Life volunteers who provided probono services working relentlessly 24/7 to service the 11500 callers in distress and saved 190 lives, there by the families also.
1life has announced new initiatives on the eve of Suicide prevention week:
1. Partnering with women safety wing, Telangana Police, Virtual call centre for victims of domestic violence
2. Launched a dedicated helpline for students and schools : 78930 70049
Established in 2015, 1Life- is a start up Non-Profit organization, by Mr. Suresh Kala and his friends with a vision of Suicide Free Society. 1Life operates a free 24/7 helpline (78930 78930) for anyone who is suicidal or depressed to reach out for crisis support. It adopts Volunteer-Mentor model. The volunteers are mentored by qualified professional counselors to ensure quality and supported by a panel of psychologists to provide the required intervention and guidance.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Lakshmi Prasanna – Director of Operations said: We at 1life, receive 1500+ calls for help on our helpline number (78930 78930) month on month. We have had several success stories and we would like to share them with the world. At 1Life our trained volunteers have saved 190+ lives during the pandemic period by providing support during the most critical time and helping them to battle their suicidal tendencies and successfully overcome those haunting thoughts and lead a normal life. Our volunteers handle the person having suicidal tendencies with utmost empathy and ensure complete anonymity and confidentiality. Publicity : Launcherz
