September 10 was observed globally as Suicide Prevention Day, a moment to pause and reflect on the quiet battles people carry, often unseen. In a small island like Saint Lucia, where every loss ripples across families and communities, the call to act is both constant and necessary.
For Dr Charmaine Hippolyte-Emmanuel, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Equity, prevention is not just a matter of systems or services; it begins in something much more human: the relationships we build with one another. “If you have good rapport with someone, it becomes easier to say, ‘I notice something, are you okay?’” she said. “It’s about listening, understanding, helping, and showing true love.”
Too often, suicide is spoken about in hushed tones, burdened by stigma and silence. Within a Christian culture, shame has sometimes clouded conversations, leaving families isolated in their grief. Hippolyte-Emmanuel’s research and experience in mental health, having once served as director at the National Mental Wellness Centre, remind her of how vital it is to shift that narrative. “One or two deaths by suicide is way too many considering our small population,” she explained. “We want to ensure that persons who have those thoughts are not stigmatised or discriminated against. It’s really about rallying with them and giving all the support they need.”
The signs can be subtle: a sudden withdrawal, a loss of interest, a quiet dimming of light. What matters most, she says, is that we notice – and respond. “Reach out not just to gather information, but to reassure, to support, and where necessary, to refer to professionals. Most importantly, we need to remind people there is a tomorrow worth living for.”
In an age of ghosting, online cruelty and fractured attention, her message feels radical in its simplicity: care for one another. Whether through small kindnesses, mindful words or consistent presence, cultivating connection is a powerful act of prevention.
If you are thinking about suicide, contact the National Mental Health Helpline at the Ministry of Health by dialling 203.
You know, we like to say we care about each other, but honestly, most of the time, it doesn’t really feel like we do. Not in a meaningful way. We talk about community, support, connection, but when you look around, it often feels like everyone’s just trying to survive in their own lane. Take work, for example. Employers keep piling on more responsibilities, expecting people to do the jobs of two, maybe three others, and still want your time after hours, calls, emails, messages , like your family, or your peace of mind, don’t matter. It’s like we’ve forgotten people have lives outside work, and those lives deserve just as much respect. Somewhere along the line, we started prioritizing output over well-being, and it’s hurting us more than we realize.