Abel calls for better suicide-response training
Originally published by The Gleaner Read the original
WESTERN BUREAU: Consultant psychiatrist Dr Wendel Abel is calling for better training for Jamaica’s first responders, emergency-service workers and emergency-room staff in dealing with people exhibiting suicidal behaviour, arguing that poor responses can deepen existing trauma. Speaking at last Thursday’s World Suicide Prevention Day Webinar 2026 on Zoom, Abel said suicidal thoughts and attempts are often cries for help rooted in past trauma. He noted that about 80 per cent of Jamaicans have exp