What can be done to prevent suicide among people with visual impairments?

There are several actions that can be taken in clinical and social settings to prevent suicidal behavior in people with visual impairments. Some recommendations include:

• Integrate mental health screening into ophthalmology consultations. Since ophthalmology is often the only specialty a person visits, it is recommended to implement screening tools and normalize the conversation during consultations.
• Identify critical risk moments. Professionals must be vigilant, especially at the time of diagnosis and during transitions in functionality related to basic daily living tasks, such as ceasing to drive or being unable to read independently.
• Promote early basic rehabilitation. The use of adaptive tools such as walking sticks or optical and technological resources helps maintain social connection and, at the same time, protect mental health.
• Restoring autonomy. When we improve mobility and access to leisure, culture, sports, academic or work environments, we reduce the feeling of burden or dependence, one of the main predictors of suicidal ideation.
• Referral to support networks and peer groups is essential. It is crucial that different professionals work in a coordinated manner to provide the necessary resources to each person.
• Inform and educate family members about the warning signs and alarm signals of suicide.
• Helping to prevent social isolation and inactivity are crucial. These are likely risks for people with significant visual impairments and, therefore, become risk factors for suicidal behavior.