HYDERABAD: Incidents of cyber bullying are on the rise in our country and the world. Thanks to social media that has permeated all aspects of our lives, youngsters are taking their ‘online’ lives so seriously that they are killing themselves over instances of bullying on the Internet.
As per the findings of the Lancet Commission on Adolescent Health and Well-being, suicide was the leading cause of death among youngsters aged 10-24 in the country, with 62,960 such deaths reported in 2013.
Suicide is Preventable. Together, we can. This is the motto of Darshika, a city-based non-religious and apolitical non-governmental organisation (NGO) that offers a helping hand to the depressed and suicidal. Balajie, one of the founders, says their mission is to educate people having suicidal tendencies to share their concerns, empower them to cope with their so-called problems, thereby helping them evolve.
The initiative came into being in January 2015. Currently, the helpline has 20 volunteers, and takes calls between 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm on all days.
Speaking about it, Balajie says, “Most of the callers complain that no one listens and understands them. We train our helpline volunteers to listen without judgment and empathise with the caller. We do not give any free advice, we just listen. They need someone to hold their hand in their darkest hours. And we take all callers, not differentiating on the basis of race, caste, gender, or social status.”
Asked about his future plans, Balajie said, “We are thinking of extending the helpline duration to 12 hours a day. We need more volunteers. Anybody aged 22 and above, having good communication skills and has his / her parents’ approval can apply with us for volunteering. We are also willing to join hands with like-minded individuals and corporates. Together, we can prevent suicide”.
In his parting address, Balajie gives a clarion call to people to join the drive on September 10, the World Suicide Prevention Day. The rally starts from the office of Darshika in Old Bowenpally at 11 am.