Mangalore: Sand Sculpture at Panambur Beach Creates Awareness on Suicide
Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje 
Daijiworld Media Network—Mangalore (RS/CN)  

Mangalore, Mar 2:  Following an increase in the rates of suicide, the psychiatric department of K S Hegde Medical Academy (KSHEMA) decided to create awareness on the issue through a sand sculpture at Panambur beach on Sunday March 1.

The sand sculpture on the beach had the message ‘Do not commit suicide, find a solution’. On Sunday March 1, it attracted a crowd of enthusiastic visitors.  

“The suicide rate is increasing, which can be prevented”, said Dr Sathish  Rao, professor, psychiatric department, who is heading the awareness programme. 

“Suicide is a psychiatric problem which can be prevented by improving living standards and mental health”, he said.  

Along with sand art, there was also a stall at the beach to provide information on preventing suicide. Pamphlets were also distributed by the students to create awareness about suicide.  

Dr Rao said that most suicide cases are due to simple reasons, and are preventable through counseling. He added that some are caused by mental disorders like stress, depression, and alcoholism. 

“We should counsel those who often speak of suicide and those who suddenly become dull or turn loners. A psychiatrist can find the reason for the change in their attitude. Students who try to commit suicide because of fear of exam and results can be saved through advice and building confidence”, said Dr Shrinivas  Kosagi, assistant professor, KSHEMA. 

The sand art has been created by professional artists from Udupi. The psychiatric department and students of social work from the colleges of the city also joined in. This event was part of the K S Hegde birth centenary celebrations.