On the occasion of World Suicide Prevention Awareness Day, The Khaitan School, Noida, organized a series of sensitization sessions across the Primary, Middle, and Senior wings, reaffirming the school’s commitment to nurturing not just academic success but also the emotional well-being of its learners. Each program was carefully designed to meet the developmental needs of the students, while carrying forward the shared goal of building resilience, breaking the silence around mental health, and encouraging timely help-seeking.
For the Primary Wing, Mrs. Pooja led an engaging session on resilience. Using relatable stories and simple examples, she helped young learners understand how resilience allows us to bounce back from challenges—whether academic setbacks, difficulties in friendships, or adapting to change. Students were introduced to protective factors such as family support, optimism, and healthy friendships, along with practical tips like practicing gratitude, sharing feelings with trusted adults, and balancing work with play. The session left children reassured and empowered, instilling the belief that challenges can be overcome with courage and support.
In the Middle School, Ms. Priyanka conducted a session on “Finding Light in the Darkness.” Addressing the unique struggles of adolescence, she validated the emotions that students often face—stress, confusion, and loneliness—and emphasized the importance of open communication. Students were encouraged to seek support from parents, teachers, counselors, or friends, and to use healthy coping strategies such as writing, creative hobbies, mindfulness, and physical activity. The core message was one of hope and connection, reminding students that even in dark times, light can be found when we reach out and refuse to isolate ourselves.
For the Senior Wing, a more intensive session was conducted with Class 12 students by Dr. Neha Dutt and Mr. Amit Mendiratta. The facilitators began by addressing the critical question: “Why are we talking about it?” They emphasized that suicide, while serious, is preventable—and that silence around mental health causes more harm than good. Students learned about potential causes such as prolonged stress, academic pressure, emotional isolation, and crises, as well as warning signs like withdrawal, hopelessness, or expressions of being a burden. The session equipped students with strategies to support themselves and others: listening without judgment, showing empathy, and guiding peers to trusted adults or professionals. Resources such as the school’s counseling team and emergency helplines were also shared. The overarching message was clear—asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Taken together, these three sessions created a continuum of awareness across the school. Younger students learned the value of resilience, adolescents were reminded of the power of hope and trusted connections, and seniors were equipped with knowledge and strategies to actively prevent despair. The initiative highlighted that academic excellence cannot be separated from mental health and well-being.
Students across all wings responded with attentiveness and openness, making the observance a meaningful step toward building a supportive and resilient school community. The program reminded everyone that life’s challenges are real but surmountable, that help is always within reach, and that compassion and communication are key to preventing despair.
Through this thoughtful observance, The Khaitan School reinforced an essential truth: suicide is preventable, and each of us has a role to play in ensuring no one feels alone in their struggles.
