A new suicide prevention campaign in Nederland features stories from railway workers—machinists, conductors, and ProRail employees—who regularly encounter individuals in crisis. Approximately 200 people die each year in Nederland from collisions with trains, with many more attempts occurring. The campaign, initiated by 113 and the railway companies, aims to reduce these numbers by sharing the experiences of those on the front lines. NS head conductor Glenda, with 8.5 years of experience, recounts encountering around twenty suicidal individuals, including one completed suicide, in various locations—on the tracks, near stations, and on platforms. She vividly recalls an incident where she spent an hour and a half talking a young woman out of stepping in front of a train, eventually persuading her to board and be taken into police custody. The workers emphasize the importance of directly asking about suicidal thoughts and recognizing unusual behavior, such as someone lightly dressed in cold weather, as potential indicators of a crisis.

English
Français
Español
हिन्दी
中文