Apollo Hospitals Bengaluru Conducts Awareness Drive on World Suicide Prevention Day

Bengaluru, September 10, 2025: In observance of World Suicide Prevention Day, Apollo Hospitals, Bengaluru hosted a multi-faceted awareness event that convened healthcare professionals, patients, caregivers, and mental health advocates to address suicide prevention and mental wellbeing. The event was inaugurated by Prof. Sourav Mukherji, Professor of Organizational Behaviour at IIM Bangalore, who served as the Chief Guest for the occasion.

Designed with an inclusive and community-engaged framework, the event featured a mix of educational sessions, solemn tributes, creative performances, and interactive activities including a Kahoot quiz and mime show. These elements aimed to dismantle stigma, foster open dialogue, and make mental health conversations accessible and empathetic.

A poignant segment of the program included a recorded patient testimonial and a video message from Dr. Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd., followed by a symbolic balloon release as a gesture of solidarity. The event culminated in a focused Suicide Awareness Session led by Dr. Sugami Ramesh, Senior Psychologist, and her team, emphasizing early intervention and community support systems.

“Mental health struggles are often invisible, but they are very real. Our goal with this initiative was to create a safe, inclusive space where people feel seen, heard, and supported. Every conversation counts. Every life matters,” said Dr. Sugami Ramesh.

Notably, the event takes place against a backdrop of concerning data. A recent report by Ministry of Home Affairs reveals that suicide is the leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 29 years in India. Reflecting this trend, Bengaluru reported 1,067 suicides in just the first five months of 2025, highlighting the urgent need for sustained awareness and prevention efforts.

“Suicide prevention is not just a medical concern, it’s a societal responsibility. At Apollo, we believe in addressing mental health with the same urgency and compassion as physical health. Today’s event is a reminder that we must all come together to listen, support, and act,” said Dr. Govindaiah Yatheesh, Chief Operating Officer, Apollo Hospitals, Bengaluru.

This observance reinforces Apollo’s commitment to making mental health care an integral part of its broader healthcare mission driven by empathy, awareness, and proactive intervention. The initiative encourages individuals to seek help during emotional distress, emphasizing that opening up to someone they trust, be it a friend, family member, or mental health professional can be a vital step in navigating difficult times and preventing suicidal thoughts.