Mpower marked World Suicide Prevention Day by mobilising students across Mumbai colleges through its COPE (Counselling and Outreach for Peer Empowerment) Clubs. Creative activities such as the ‘Jenga of Hope,’ ‘Hope Hunt,’ and open-mic sessions transformed the serious conversation around suicide prevention into youth-led engagement that was both relatable and impactful.
Mpower – an initiative of the Aditya Birla Education Trust, Founded by Mrs Neerja Birla – is spotlighting the urgent mental health needs of young people through on-ground campus activities and data-driven interventions on the World Suicide Prevention Day (Sep 10).
According to Mpower’s data, an analysis of 53 high-risk youth clients since 2024 reveals that young Mumbaikars aged 18–25 is increasingly vulnerable to complex mental health challenges—cases were almost evenly split between men and women.
The issues span mood and personality disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive–compulsive behaviours, and substance use, alongside identity struggles, relationship difficulties, and family conflicts. These are further compounded by academic pressure, financial instability, social isolation, and emotional dysregulation—factors that leave many highly susceptible to suicidal ideation at some point in their lives.
The findings raise urgent need for early mental health interventions, sustained awareness campaigns, and integrated support systems that include educational institutions, families and the wider community.
This pattern mirrors Mumbai’s broader mental health crisis, with NCRB data revealing that the city records an average of four suicides every single day. Taken together, the statistics underscore an urgent call to action for youth-focused policies, preventive care, and accessible mental health services.
The power of early intervention is reflected not just in outreach, but in real stories from Mumbai. One 19-year-old, who had shown signs of active suicidal thoughts, experienced marked mood improvement within two to three weeks and a significant reduction in risk over eight weeks through timely mental health support, including therapy, psychiatric care, and supervised behaviour activation. In another instance, a young adult struggling with depression and family conflict achieved stability within six weeks and has since transitioned to living independently while balancing higher education and work. Regular wellness checks, de-escalation strategies, and psychoeducation played a vital role in both recoveries—demonstrating how timely access to care can change the course of young lives.
Beyond awareness, COPE also equips 25 students per college as Youth Mental Health First Aiders, trained to recognise early warning signs, offer immediate peer support, and connect peers to professional care—making prevention a community-driven effort.
Parveen Shaikh, President, Mpower, said: “World Suicide Prevention Day is a powerful reminder that mental health cannot remain in the shadows. Our youth are the future of the country, and their wellbeing must be a collective priority. By engaging them at the grassroots, we create safe spaces for dialogue, encourage them to seek help without fear, and equip them with tools to cope with life’s pressures. This is not just a one-day campaign—it is about building a culture of resilience, empathy, and continuous support so that every young person has the opportunity to thrive.”
For those seeking immediate, confidential support, Mpower’s 1on1 Mental Health Helpline is available 24/7 at 1800-120-820050. The service has already become a crucial resource for thousands, offering a safe space for individuals to share and seek help without judgment.
