In recent years, society has experienced a paradigm shift in the perception of mental health, but although we have undoubtedly made progress in understanding and promoting it, both the administration and society as a whole continue to face significant challenges that demand an effective response.
No one can deny that the outbreak of the pandemic in 2020 generated additional consequences to a world already marked by stress, anxiety and depression. Not talking about it only hides a reality that must be put on the table with light and stenographers, because the main and greatest objective of any government policy is at stake: the well-being of the population, in all its dimensions. Mental health should not only cease to be a taboo, but must become an urgent priority in both the public and personal and social spheres.
The speed and efficiency with which society as a whole responds to people with suicidal thoughts has a direct positive impact on the lives of those affected and their environment. Being able to recognize a circumstance that has led to a change in ourselves or in people close to us must be a priority in order to detect a possible pathology in time. Public Administrations must act without delay and promote concrete actions to address this situation, in order to strengthen our capacity to prevent, treat and support those who face these painful circumstances. Together we can create a comprehensive, supportive and respectful environment for mental health.
In this context, the Canary Islands School of Health and Social Services (ESSSCAN), in collaboration with the General Directorate of Mental Health of the SCS and the Cabildo de Lanzarote, has organized the first conference on the island on the prevention of suicidal behavior, scheduled for February 29. An event that will serve as a meeting point to share knowledge, experiences and strategies that advance in strengthening our response to mental health.
It is essential to understand that each number represents a life lost and that, behind the statistics, there are human stories that need all our attention and understanding. Therefore, mental health training will occupy a prominent place on the ESSSCAN agenda in the coming years, with a particular focus on Canary Islands youth.
The SCS has taken important steps for the prevention of suicidal behavior, with an increase in training aimed at health professionals and other essential groups. The General Directorate of Mental Health has launched the website stopsuicidiocanarias.com, which offers information on the subject and the resources available for the care of people with suicidal behavior or ideation, as well as family members or relatives. In addition, there is the free telephone line 024, of national scope, free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, every day of the year and 112 for cases in which an emergency situation is appreciated.
The diversity of causes that lead a person to hopelessness and lack of enthusiasm for life must be addressed rigorously. Looking bravely at what is happening in contemporary society may not be easy, but it is the only way to offer real solutions. We must not remain in a mere declaration of intentions. The Canary Islands population deserves a future full of hope and opportunities, and especially we must be aware of our inescapable responsibility to work, jointly and tirelessly, to guarantee the emotional and mental well-being of future generations.
José Francisco Montelongo Espinosa
Director of the Canary Islands School of Health and Social Services (ESSSCAN)