MANILA, Philippines — Every 40 seconds, at least one life is lost to suicide, a World Health Organization (WHO) report said.

With this realization, a non-government organization is exerting efforts to bring awareness, especially to teens, on how dangerous depression could be, as the world commemorates World Suicide Prevention Day this Friday, Sept. 9.

The Natasha Goulbourn Foundation (NGF) will lead the country’s commemoration of the event through the launching of its mental fitness campaign, MINDStRONG.

This focuses on prevention of depression by equipping individuals with various coping mechanisms so they will become resilient.

WHO data showed that the Philippines has the highest incidence of depression in Southeast Asia with 93 suicides for every 100,000 Filipinos.

The NGF expressed confidence that by creating awareness about depression and showing everyone that there is help available and that it is treatable, no life will be lost again to suicide.

The NGF has urged students and teens to participate in Friday’s events, noting that the incidence of teen suicide is at an alarmingly increasing rate.

With the support of various colleges and universities such as the University of the Philippines and Miriam College, medical practitioners, and the Quezon City local government through Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, the events will kick  off at 6 a.m. through a fun run at the UP academic oval. Participants will then be treated to a series of lectures on depression to be discussed by psychology experts, Dr. Bolet Bautista, Dr. Jerry Jurisprudencia, and Dr. Peachy Mendoza.

At 1 p.m., a healing mass will be held at the Quezon City Memorial Circle’s Liwasang Aurora where various exhibits and activity booths will be installed throughout the venue that highlight the importance of a person’s wellbeing.
Activities would include counseling sessions with trained psychologists and counselors.

There will also be video screenings, art therapy classes, and psych tests to determine one’s stress level and current state of mind, and even belly dancing.

Several speakers will also share insights on how to uplift the spirits and give hope to those who are experiencing depression.

At nightfall, a solemn candlelight memorial walk will be held to remember friends and loved ones lost to suicide as well as for those who attempted to survive.