A new training program has been launched online, aimed at healthcare professionals from the HM Puerta del Sur University Hospital in Móstoles, with the aim of improving the detection, prevention, and support in cases of suicidal behavior. This initiative, promoted by the Claudia Tecglen Foundation, the Convives con Espasticidad Association, HM Hospitals, and the HM Hospitals Research Foundation, is part of the framework of the first Intercommunity Network against Suicide in People with Disabilities and their Families.
Suicide has become one of the leading causes of preventable death globally, with around 700,000 people taking their own lives each year, according to the World Health Organization. This phenomenon is particularly concerning in the community of people with disabilities, whose emotional situation has traditionally been neglected. Aware of this reality, the program organizers have carried out training focused on the early detection and prevention of suicide risk in this vulnerable group.
The program consisted of three two-hour sessions, involving 60 healthcare professionals. Attendees had the opportunity to access theoretical, practical, and attitudinal tools. The sessions not only addressed technical aspects but also emphasized the preventive role that families can play, incorporating real testimonies and practical cases that enriched the learning experience.
The effectiveness of the training was evaluated through a questionnaire measuring its impact in various areas, including expanding the concept of disability and attitudes towards suicide. The results were positive, with an overall rating of 4.85 out of 5, highlighting the professionalism of the trainers and the relevance of the shared stories. Some participants emphasized that “Claudia has been very helpful” and valued the closeness and professionalism of the instructors.
Claudia Tecglen, president of the Foundation that bears her name, highlighted that this program not only has a training component but also aims to transform the perception of suicide in the context of disability, establishing a basis for a more ethical and humane care. Darío Fernández, deputy coordinator of the initiative, commented that the results reinforce the need for this training, emphasizing the continued commitment of HM Hospitals professionals.
Dr. Juan Abarca Cidón, president of HM Hospitals, emphasized the importance of early detection of suicidal behaviors in people with disabilities, urging other healthcare professionals in Spain to join this cause. Projections for the first year of the Network include training 125 healthcare professionals and expanding training to four additional hospitals, which could benefit 40% of the disabled population and their families.
Dr. Virginia Soler, medical director of the HM Puerta del Sur University Hospital, emphasized the need for this training to reach more professionals, thus addressing the specific needs of people with disabilities, which is essential for suicide prevention. The entities involved are calling on other hospitals to join this pioneering network. This initiative has been awarded 5,000 euros in the B-Value call, highlighting its impact and the need to create support networks and early detection in the field of disability.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
