Suicide prevention in the Balearics: new measures for older adults

The Directorate General of Mental Health of the Ministry of Health has reported that in 2024 a total of 90 deaths by suicide in the Balearic Islands were recorded (22 women and 68 men), which means an average of one every four days. The average age of the deceased was 48.11 years. According to the National Statistics Institute (INE), 2023 ended with 87 cases (109 in 2022, a 20% decrease), of which 25 corresponded to people over 65, that is, 29% of the total.

In order to reduce this risk, the Directorate General of Mental Health has launched a specific programme for people over 65. This includes group workshops on emotional management, community support networks and psychoeducational guidance, with the aim of early detection of emotional distress and warning signs of suicidal risk, strengthening resilience and promoting active social participation. Older adults are considered a group with a high risk of isolation, loss of life purpose and sustained emotional suffering, particularly in times of bereavement and functional decline, according to Mental Health authorities.

Suicide attempts in the Balearic Islands in 2024

During the past year, the emergency service 061 handled 3,359 suicide attempts. Of these, 1,426 involved men (42.4%) and 1,933 women (57.5%).

Children under 10: 4 cases (2 girls, 50%; 2 boys, 50%).
Young people aged 11 to 20: 463 cases (315 women, 68%; 148 men, 32%).
People aged 21 to 40: 1,275 cases (742 women, 58.2%; 533 men, 41.8%).
Adults aged 41 to 60: 1,218 cases (669 women, 54.9%; 549 men, 45.1%).
People aged 61 to 80: 357 cases (176 women, 49.3%; 181 men, 50.7%).
Over 80: 45 cases (23 women, 51.1%; 22 men, 48.9%).

Prevention plans

The Directorate General of Mental Health promotes several initiatives as part of the Balearic Islands’ Suicide Prevention Plan (2022–2026):

In the university setting, and in collaboration with the University of the Balearic Islands, actions are carried out to raise awareness and build capacity among students, teaching staff and other university personnel. These include training sessions and audiovisual resources to improve the detection of warning signs and responses to suicidal behaviour. At least 80% of participants in training sessions improve their knowledge and self-perceived ability to act in situations of suicidal risk.
Prevention in education, with psychologists in secondary schools and training initiatives at the University of the Balearic Islands. In total, there will be 79 educational psychologists: 43 in state schools and 36 in state-subsidised schools.
Specialised support for people with serious illness, chronic pain or for those bereaved by suicide.
Reinforcement of health services and professional training, with new hospital teams, psychologists in the 061 emergency service and training for healthcare staff, teachers and police officers.

VII Race and Walk of the Balearic Islands

The VII Race and Walk of the Balearic Islands for Suicide Prevention will take place on Saturday 13 in Binissalem. The 6 km race will start at 6:30 pm, and the 4,116-metre walk, in memory of those who died by suicide in 2023, will begin at 7:30 pm. Registrations are available at elitechip.net.