The Red Cross has begun the second year of an emotional wellbeing and suicide prevention programme at La Encantá Secondary School in Rojales. The initiative started as a pilot scheme last year, after the school reported high levels of distress, self-harm and suicidal behaviour among pupils.

The programme will run monthly until June across seven first-year secondary classes, reaching between 130 and 150 pupils aged 11 and 12. Sessions will cover self-esteem, emotional regulation, empathy, resilience and how to ask for help. Teachers will receive guidance on recognising warning signs and providing initial psychological support, while families will be shown how to listen, validate emotions and respond without judgement.

The scheme has been funded by the local health department and will also run this year at Les Dunes Secondary School in Guardamar del Segura. Cruz Roja hopes to extend the approach to other municipalities. Official figures show that 424 people died by suicide in the Valencian Community in 2024, including 171 in Alicante province. The regional health service has also introduced round-the-clock proactive follow-up for people at risk.