Programs

ASIST is a two-day, two-trainer workshop designed for members of all caregiving groups. Family, friends and other community members may be the first to talk with a person at risk but have little or no training. ASIST can also provide those in formal helping roles with professional development to ensure they are prepared to provide suicide first-aid help as part of the care they provide.

The emphasis is on teaching suicide first-aid to help a person at risk stay safe and seek further help as needed. Participants learn to use a suicide intervention model to identify persons with thoughts of suicide, seek a shared understanding of reasons for dying and living, develop a safeplan based upon a review of risk, be prepared to do follow-up and become involved in suicide-safer community networks. The learning process is based on adult learning principles and is highly participatory. Graduated skills development occurs through mini-lectures, facilitated discussions, group simulations and role-plays.

safeTALK is a four-hour, face-to-face workshop featuring powerful presentations, audiovisuals and skills practice. Participants will learn how to prevent suicide by recognizing signs, engaging someone and connecting them to an intervention resource for further support. A skilled, supportive trainer will guide participants through the course, and a community resource will be on hand to support their safety and comfort.