Perhaps surprisingly, thoughts of suicide are not always related to mental ill-health. The reasons can seem challenging and complex. Furthermore, it is not always obvious when a person is at risk of suicide. Being suicide alert and talking about the reasons for wanting to live and die has been proven to help. We teach World Health Organisation (WHO) approved courses developed by LivingWorks that facilitate and promote this discussion while keeping both the care-giver and the person at risk safe.
This is an intensive 2 day course for care-givers and key community members. It teaches suicide alertness and an easy to remember framework of practical skills to safely initiate, complete and follow-up on a full suicide intervention.
What is ASIST?
An accredited two day, interactive training that prepares caregivers to provide suicide first aid interventions.
Who can attend ASIST?
Anyone 16 or older (despite previous training) can learn and use the ASIST model. No previous mental health or suicide prevention experience is necessary.
What will you learn as an ASIST trained first aid caregiver?
After taking ASIST, you will be better able to:
-
Be suicide alert – identify people who have thoughts of suicide
-
Understand the reasons behind thoughts of suicide and the reasons for living
-
Assess risk and safety – develop a plan to increase the safety of the person at risk of suicide
-
Recognise invitations for help
-
Recognise potential barriers of seeking help
-
Offer support – recognise other important aspects of suicide prevention including
life-promotion and self-care
-
Effectively apply a suicide intervention model
-
Link people with community resources
What are the workshop features?
-
Presentations and guidance from two LivingWorks registered trainers
-
A scientifically proven intervention model
-
Powerful audio-visual learning aids
-
Group discussions
-
Skills practice and development
-
A balance of challenge and safety
-
Participant materials include a 20-page workbook, wallet card, and stickers. Participants also receive a certificate upon completing the workshop.
More information about the structure of the course is available via https://www.livingworks.net/programs/asist/
