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"The 'Cry Out!' initiative resurfaces, with enhanced efforts towards suicide prevention in Murcia"

Murcia Introduces a Novel Suicide Prevention Protocol and Youth Campaign, Offering Support Lines and Resources for At-Risk Individuals

"Suicide Prevention initiative re-emerges in Murcia, Spain"
"Suicide Prevention initiative re-emerges in Murcia, Spain"

"The 'Cry Out!' initiative resurfaces, with enhanced efforts towards suicide prevention in Murcia"

In an effort to combat the issue of suicide and improve mental health support, the Region of Murcia has launched a new care protocol called the Suicide Risk Code (Código Riesgo Suicida). This initiative is part of the Mental Health Improvement Strategy 2023-2026 and will begin rolling out this month across the regional mental health network.

The Suicide Risk Code is aimed at people who have attempted suicide or who show clear signs of risk. The protocol will be applied in mental health centres and emergency services, ensuring early detection and ongoing treatment. This proactive approach is expected to make a significant difference in addressing the mental health crisis in the region.

The suicide rate in the Region of Murcia was 6.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, the lowest in 11 years and below the national average. In 2023, there were 4,116 suicides in Spain, 111 fewer than in the previous year, a decline of about 2.6 per cent. These numbers underscore the importance of initiatives like the Suicide Risk Code.

Individuals in Murcia seeking advice and support can reach out to the Federación Salud Mental Región de Murcia on 968 23 29 19. For those who prefer to speak with trained professionals during weekdays, the Telefono Municipal de Salud Mental on 900 10 79 13 is available.

In addition to these resources, a new website, Prevención Suicida (Suicide Prevention), has been launched on Murciasalud to guide patients and families towards urgent resources. The region also offers support programmes for families who have lost loved ones to suicide, with the involvement of associations such as Telefono de la Esperanza (Telephone of Hope).

For English speakers in Spain, Samaritans in Spain can be reached on the freephone 900 525 100 (landlines) or 634 325 906 (mobiles), or via email at [email protected] for confidential support. The UK Samaritans are available 24/7 at 44 330 094 5717 (international rates apply).

To further reach out to the youth, the regional health department has relaunched Grita!, a campaign targeting 14-16 year-olds in the Region of Murcia. The name of the person responsible for the Grita! program in the Murcia region is José Luis López Ródenas. A mobile unit is touring the region's 45 municipalities to bring mental health support to teenagers.

Línea 024, a free, 24-hour hotline run by the Ministry of Health for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, is another valuable resource in Spain. For local health services in Spain, Línea 024 can be contacted.

In conclusion, the Suicide Risk Code and the accompanying initiatives are significant steps towards improving mental health support and suicide prevention in the Region of Murcia. By offering various resources and approaches, the region is demonstrating its commitment to addressing this critical issue.

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