Director of Mental Health Services Dr Naomie Jn Baptiste is urging Saint Lucians to take suicide prevention seriously, saying simple acts of kindness, listening and support can help save a life.
Jn Baptiste shared this message as the island marked World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10.
This year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”, encourages people to talk more openly about suicide and help reduce the stigma around mental health challenges.
According to Jn Baptiste, everyone has a part to play.
“Everybody has to play a part in suicide prevention, because there are simple things that can be done to prevent suicide,” she said.
She explained that listening to someone who is struggling, showing empathy and taking their feelings seriously can make a real difference.
“Sometimes just by showing empathy, lending a listening ear and not downplaying people’s feelings and people’s symptoms, then it can go a long way towards preventing suicide,” Jn Baptiste said.
She stressed that people should never ignore signs that someone might be struggling. This is especially important for men, she said, since some may avoid talking about depression or suicidal thoughts out of fear of being seen as weak.
Jn Baptiste also encouraged anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, anxiety, or depression to seek professional help. Support is available at wellness centres across Saint Lucia, where people can be referred to mental health professionals.
People can also call the national helpline at 203 for guidance and support.
The Ministry of Health also has community mental health workers, including psychiatric nurse practitioners, community nurses and health aides.
To help strengthen suicide prevention in Saint Lucia, local stakeholders recently joined a three-day workshop with colleagues from Guadeloupe. Jn Baptiste said the lessons learned could help Saint Lucia create a national suicide prevention strategy and policy.
A town hall meeting is also scheduled for September 13 in Gros Islet as part of suicide prevention activities.
Jn Baptiste’s main message to the public is to look out for one another and take signs of emotional distress seriously.
“We should be our brother’s keeper,” she said. “There is help out there. There are people out there who are trained in that area that are really willing to help you.
“We need to recognise our symptoms … and don’t downplay any symptom.”
