Connecting Trust Highlights the Importance of Emotional Support on World Suicide Prevention Day
Pune, 10th September 2023: Shilpa Tambe, the Outreach & Awareness Coordinator at Connecting Trust, stressed the critical need for emotional support for individuals grappling with suicidal thoughts. Tambe revealed that Connecting Trust had provided support and saved the lives of 19,832 individuals during the 2022-23 period through their distress helpline and prevention programs.
Tambe remarked, “Every person, at some point in their life, encounters a blind turn or experiences tunnel vision. For moments, days, or even months, there might not be a glimmer of hope in sight. Many individuals struggle to recognize their need for support and find it challenging to muster the strength to seek help. It is our responsibility to identify and support those under stress.”
She went on to highlight that September 10th is recognized as ‘World Suicide Prevention Day’ worldwide, with the theme for 2023 being ‘Creating Hope Through Action.’ Tambe elaborated on the concept of hope, emphasizing that every effort to endure, persevere, and reach out creates hope. Recognizing the need for support, accepting that it’s okay not to be okay, extending a helping hand, listening, understanding, and providing non-judgmental and non-advisory spaces are all actions that foster hope.
Connecting Trust, a Pune-based organization founded in 2005 by Mrs. Arnavaz Damania and like-minded individuals, has been a volunteer-based listening service dedicated to suicide prevention for the past 18 years. Their mission is to create a caring and compassionate world where everyone is connected to life, raising awareness about suicide prevention and offering support to those in emotional distress or affected by suicide.
Tambe stressed the organization’s belief in the strength of individuals and communities to co-create a shared vision, tackle challenges, take action, and adapt. Through services such as the Distress Helpline, Email support, Suicide Survivor Support number, and walk-in sessions, Connecting Trust provides a safe space for individuals in distress. Trained volunteers find fulfillment in witnessing positive shifts in the emotional well-being of those they assist.
Tambe concluded her message with an appeal: “If you are feeling low, or if you know someone going through a difficult time, please reach out. Save our contact details and encourage your loved ones to do the same.”
The organization offers the following free services:
- DISTRESS HELPLINE (for those in emotional distress or feeling suicidal):
- 9922004305 | 9922001122 (available daily from 10 am to 8 pm)
- Email support: [email protected]
- SUICIDE SURVIVOR SUPPORT Number: 8484033312
- Walk-in sessions every Wednesday (by appointment only): Call/text 8484033312
