Since the passing of Hurricane Maria, and until last Friday, at least 14 people have committed suicide in Puerto Rico, a figure that raised a red flag in various public and private sectors that joined efforts to serve the population in need of emotional support.
Although only relatives of two of the dead have linked the deaths directly to the hurricane, mental health professionals believe that it is imperative to carry out preventive interventions with vulnerable people – especially – considering that many treatment clinics remain closed.
Hurricane Maria not only caused structural damage or environmental damage, it also affected the mental health of many people. It is a unique event that touched everyone, and anxiety levels are perceived without distinction of social class , age or gender. That is why it is important to intervene in time through resources such as those offered by mental health clinics.
According to official data, at the moment, 21 people have been cared for on their own account, referred by administrative staff from various shelters, hospitals or other agencies. There have also been dozens of other interventions in communities – whose mayors or organizations – have requested the service.
Anxiety, suicide attempts and relapses of patients who were being treated for substance use and abuse are the main symptoms of the cases treated, some of them are referred for immediate hospitalization.
