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Saving a Life Begins with Listening in Suicide Prevention

Writer: Fulcro
Fulcro
Sep 3
3 min read
Distressed man covers his face, surrounded by blue cubes, a brain graphic, and a purple shape with WELLNESS text.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time that invites us to reflect on a painful but preventable reality in our island community.


In Puerto Rico, official statistics from the Suicide Prevention Commission show that the annual average number of deaths by suicide is 285 (from January 2000 through December 31, 2025).



It is important to emphasize that suicide can be prevented through timely, nonjudgmental emotional support. 


What Is Suicide and What Causes It? 


Suicide occurs when a person harms themselves with the intention of ending their life. Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) explain that suicide is a complex phenomenon resulting from a combination of emotional, social, biological, and environmental factors.


Some of the most common contributing factors include depression or other mental health disorders, alcohol and drug use, significant losses, financial difficulties, experiences of trauma, abuse, or violence, among others.


These situations can make a person feel trapped and believe there is no way out. However, with timely support and access to professional help, suicide can be prevented.


Suicide prevention reminds us that connecting with others in an empathetic way can be the lifeline someone needs. If you are concerned about a friend, family member, or acquaintance, here is how you can provide meaningful, safe, and effective emotional support. 


Blue warning triangle with an exclamation mark on a purple square background, signaling caution

Learn to Recognize the Warning Signs 


To help others, we must first learn to observe. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that people at risk often exhibit changes in behavior.


Watch for warning signs such as:

  • Talking about wanting to die or kill themselves.

  • Expressing hopelessness or having no reason to live.

  • Feeling trapped or unable to find solutions.

  • Experiencing unbearable physical or emotional pain.

  • Feeling like a burden to others.

  • Withdrawing from family and friends.

  • Giving away important possessions.

  • Saying goodbye in unusual ways.

  • Taking extreme risks, such as driving at very high speeds.

  • Talking or thinking about death frequently.


Four friends stand arm-in-arm on a hill at sunset, facing a hazy valley in warm golden light.

Suicide Prevention: How to Support Someone at Risk


Providing emotional support does not require being an expert. It means becoming a bridge of trust and safety. Recommended actions include:

  • Choose the right moment: Talk in a quiet and private setting.

  • Listen without judgment: Allow the person to express their pain without minimizing it.

  • Ask directly: Talking openly and respectfully about suicide can reduce anxiety and create space for honest conversation. Ask directly whether they have thought about suicide.

  • Remove potential means of harm: Limit access to firearms, medications, or other potentially dangerous items.

  • Do not leave the person alone: If the risk is immediate, stay with them at all times.

What Not to Do


  • Do not give moral lectures: Avoid debating whether suicide is right or wrong.

  • Do not promise absolute secrecy: If the person's life is at risk, professional help must be sought.

  • Do not challenge or provoke: Never dismiss, minimize, or trivialize the situation.


Two stylized people sit in blue chairs facing each other on a purple background, one hand on chest, suggesting conversation or concern

Encourage Professional Help 


Emotional support is essential, but treatment should be provided by trained professionals.


  • Encourage and accompany: Help schedule a medical appointment or accompany the person to their first consultation.

  • Stay connected: After the crisis, continue reaching out. Calls and visits show the person that they matter and are not alone.


If you or someone you know is experiencing an emotional crisis or thoughts of self-harm, you are not alone. Puerto Rico has mental health professionals available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in a confidential setting. 


  • PAS Line (Psychosocial First Aid) and National Crisis Line:  1-800-981-0023 

  • Deaf Community (Video Calls in Sign Language):  (787) 615-4112 (VRS)

  • Live Chat:  Available through ASSMCA's PAS Line portal: https://lineapas.assmca.pr.gov/ 

  • Immediate Emergencies:  If there is imminent danger, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest mental health emergency room. 


This September:

  • Saving a life begins with listening: Paying attention and creating a safe space can make all the difference.

  • Emotional support is prevention: Your empathy and presence can save lives.

  • Break the silence: Talking about suicide in a direct and respectful way can reduce anxiety and encourage openness.

  • Be the bridge to help: Your support can connect someone with the professional care they need.

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References: 

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About Fulcro 

With 45+ years of experience, Fulcro Insurance is a leading risk management and insurance brokerage firm helping businesses protect what matters most. We design customized commercial insurance, employee benefits, surety, cybersecurity, and claims management solutions tailored to each organization's unique needs. Serving clients across Puerto Rico, Florida, Georgia, and the Dominican Republic, our industry-specific insurance specialists provide strategic guidance that helps businesses manage risk with confidence.

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