The Counselling Cell and IQAC of St. Joseph Vaz College, Cortalim, Goa, organized a talk on “Suicide Prevention” on Friday, September 20th, 2024, in observance of World Suicide Prevention Day. The event was held in the college's Seminar Hall and was open to students from both St. Joseph Vaz College and St. Joseph Vaz Institute of Education.

Rev. Prof. Simao Diniz, who holds a PhD in Psychology, served as the resource person for the session. The program began with a brief prayer service led by students, followed by Miss Isha Gomes from S.Y.BSc introducing the guest speaker. Acting Principal presented a potted plant as a token of appreciation to Rev. Prof. Diniz.

In his talk, Rev. Prof. Simao Diniz discussed suicide rates in India and Goa, focusing on the increasing numbers among both youth and the elderly. He covered key topics such as warning signs, behavioral changes, risk factors, levels of threat, and the importance of providing emotional support to individuals at risk. He also shared examples of highly suicidal cases he had managed and explained how he helped those individuals cope with their challenges. The session also aimed to dispel common myths about suicide.

The audience was encouraged to talk to a trusted confidant and seek professional help if they were struggling. Rev. Prof. Diniz also emphasized the need for compassion and empathy toward those who confide in them.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Miss Aroma Diniz, the In-charge of the Counselling Cell.