Welcome to our blog, where we bring you the latest updates on the future Action Plan for the Prevention of Suicide 2025-2027 presented by the Ministry of Health on September 9. This presentation coincided with the observance of World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10. The event saw the presence of Minister Mónica García, Commissioner for Mental Health Belén González, and Secretary of State for Justice Manuel Olmedo.
This draft Action Plan aims to address the social determinants of suicidal behavior, focusing on understanding the causes and designing effective measures to prevent suicide. The objective of the plan is to improve the response to risk situations and ensure timely care for those in need.
According to data collected by the INE, Spain saw a total of 3,952 suicides in 2023, with 2,952 being men and 1,000 women. This marks a 6.5% decrease from the previous year, the first drop in suicide rates in five years. Globally, the number of deaths by suicide reached 700,000 last year.
Bioethical assessment
The statistics on suicides in Spain for 2023 reveal a concerning trend, with over 10 suicides occurring daily, disproportionately affecting men. While there has been a slight decrease this year compared to the previous year, suicidal behavior in developed countries remains a significant public health issue.
Despite government statements on the need for preventative actions, progress in this regard remains limited. Interestingly, alongside this concern, there is a growing acceptance of euthanasia and assisted suicide.
The blog highlights the importance of providing care and support to individuals with suicidal tendencies, emphasizing the need for palliative measures to prevent them from seeking euthanasia or assisted suicide. The value of life must be upheld, regardless of the circumstances someone may be facing.
The Bioethics Observatory at the Life Sciences Institute of the Catholic University of Valencia underlines the need for comprehensive palliative measures to address the root causes of suicidal behavior and prevent individuals from seeking a premature end to their lives.
Julio Tudela – Ester Bosch – Bioethics Observatory – Life Sciences Institute – Catholic University of Valencia
