Lanzarote has joined the World Day for Suicide Prevention with an initiative focused on adolescents. The island’s Cabildo, through the Social Welfare and Inclusion Area, presented a specific programme on Wednesday that will deploy a team of ten psychologists in secondary schools and sports clubs across the island. The aim is to address an issue that has become the leading cause of death among young people in Spain.
The statistics are alarming. In 2023, more than 300 suicides were recorded in the 15 to 29 age group in the country, a figure that doubles that of traffic accidents and highlights the severity of the problem. In response, the island Corporation has decided to implement a strategy for the prevention and promotion of mental health, in collaboration with the Education Department, the Official College of Psychology of Las Palmas, and educational institutions.
The Social Welfare Councillor, Marci Acuña, explained that the Cabildo has allocated €300,000 to this plan, which encompasses all 23 secondary schools in Lanzarote. He elaborated that the initiative includes training for teachers, prevention protocols, awareness activities, and specialised support for the early detection of risky behaviours. It also includes referrals to specialised services when necessary.
Identifying Warning Signs
The project’s coordinator, psychologist Paloma Quesada, emphasised that the challenge is to provide practical tools to the educational and sporting communities. “It is about learning to identify warning signs, providing immediate support, and combating the stigma associated with mental health issues,” she highlighted.
The plan is not limited to teachers. Workshops and group activities for students have also been scheduled to enhance their emotional skills, promote decision-making, and equip them with strategies to handle everyday challenges.
The Dean of the Official College of Psychology of Las Palmas, Francisco Javier Sánchez, underscored the importance of institutions and professionals working together to create protective environments. “Coordination is key for young people to feel heard and supported,” he asserted.
The presentation also included an institutional video that will be shared on social media. The audiovisual piece emphasizes the importance of talking, listening, and supporting those who are in risky situations.
