Annual Global Conference on Suicide Prevention Concludes at FJWU
The 2nd Annual Global Conference, titled "Breaking the Silence: Addressing Suicide Risk and Prevention in Vulnerable Groups", concluded successfully, providing a much-needed platform for dialogue on one of the most pressing global health issues. Held virtually, the event was organized by the National Center for Research on Suicide Prevention (NCRSP) in collaboration with the Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning (PILL), the Manchester Global Foundation, Global Mental Health & Cultural Psychiatry, and the University of Manchester, UK.
The conference aimed to address the complex and multifaceted challenges of suicide prevention, particularly in vulnerable groups, by sharing cutting-edge research, contextualized strategies, and regional perspectives. Moderated by Dr. Aneela Maqsood (FJWU) and Ms. Amna Naureen (Lead Training & Development PILL), the event showcased the necessity of adopting collaborative and evidence-based approaches. Prof. Dr. Bushra Mirza, Vice Chancellor of Fatima Jinnah Women University and Patron-in-Chief of the conference, officially inaugurated the event, emphasizing the significance of collaborative efforts in tackling global challenges. She highlighted FJWU’s steadfast commitment to community engagement and societal well-being. Through pioneering research, meaningful collaborations, and capacity-building programs, FJWU remains at the forefront of addressing pressing societal issues while shaping a healthier and more inclusive future.
Prof. Dr. Sarwet Rasul, Conference Advisor and Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences FJWU, emphasized the vital role of academic institutions in addressing public health crises, particularly mental health. She highlighted that Universities are not just learning centers but dynamic spaces for innovation, idea exchange, and community building, where conversations on mental health can be normalized and support systems developed.
Dr. Aneela Maqsood, Director NCRSP and the conference organizer, emphasized that the event serves as an annual platform to foster dialogue on suicide prevention. She noted that this year’s conference had an expanded scope, featuring contributions from experts across diverse countries, including the UK, USA, Australia, Nepal, Nigeria, India, and Pakistan. These global perspectives enriched the discussions, offering valuable insights and best practices tailored to address local needs effectively.
Highlights and Key Contributions
Prof. Dr. Nasim Chaudhry, CEO of PILL and Conference Joint Organizer, emphasized the importance of transforming research findings into actionable interventions, shedding light on Pakistan’s progress in suicide prevention. Prof. Imran Chaudhry (Chairman Psychiatry Department, Ziauddin Hospital, Karachi) shared PILL's pioneering efforts in this area, highlighting initiatives that effectively connect community engagement with clinical practices.
Prof. Dr. Zainab Zadeh (Head Child & Adolescent Mental Health Division) focused on enhancing mental health among children and adolescents, emphasizing the need for youth-centered preventive measures in vulnerable populations.
From Nepal, Dr. Rishav Koirala (Executive Director, Brain and Neuroscience Center, Nepal Treasure, Nepal), discussed the mental health challenges faced by migrant workers. Dr. Kamal Gautam (Director, TPO Nepal), talked about locally driven suicide prevention models that offer valuable lessons applicable to other developing nations. From Australia, Dr. Humaira Maheen, Research Fellow at the Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, addressed the growing issue of migrant suicides, offering practical strategies to tackle this critical concern. Dr. Dung Jidong from the University of Manchester explored self-harm and suicide ideation within African contexts, emphasizing the importance of cultural frameworks in shaping mental health interventions.
Prof. Dr. Erminia Colucci, (Cultural & Global Mental Health, Middlesex University, London, UK) the keynote speaker from the United Kingdom, advocated for culturally sensitive approaches to suicide prevention in humanitarian settings, focusing on the unique challenges faced in crisis-affected areas. Dr. Colucci thoroughly discussed the specific consideration in offering Mental Health First Aid intervention for immigrants and refugees.
From the United States, Dr. Alana McVey (Clinical Psychologist, Center for Behavioral Medicine, Brookfield, Wisconsin, US) provided insights into the application of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for autistic adults experiencing suicidal ideation, offering a clinically informed perspective. Mr. Evan Bose (Clinical Psychologist Bangalore University, India) from India delved into existential mental health issues, shedding light on the psychological toll of societal pressures on individuals’ well-being.
Impact and Way Forward
The conference enabled vibrant cross-cultural exchanges among participants from diverse countries and time zones, promoting a strong sense of global solidarity. Discussions highlighted the significance of tailoring interventions to the specific needs of vulnerable populations, integrating cultural sensitivity into mental health approaches, and fostering international collaborations for research and collective action.
In his closing remarks, Prof. Dr. Nusrat Husain (Director Research Global Mental Health, University of Manchester, UK) underscored the pivotal role of research in guiding future suicide prevention efforts. He called for a renewed commitment to breaking the silence surrounding this pressing public health issue, fostering hope for a future where suicide prevention is embraced as a collective global priority.
