The World Health Organization estimates that one million people die annually by suicide. That represents one death every 40 seconds. In Canada the suicide rate is 15 per 100,000 and is the second leading cause of death for Canadians between the ages of 10 and 24. Do you want to feel ready, willing and able to prevent the immediate risk of suicide for others? Just as CPR skills make physical first aid possible, training in suicide intervention develops the skills used in suicide first aid. ASIST is a two-day intensive, interactive and practice-dominated course designed to help caregivers recognize and estimate risk, and learn how to intervene to prevent the immediate risk of suicide. The workshop is for all caregivers (any person in a position of trust). This includes professionals, paraprofessionals and lay people. It is suitable for mental health professionals, nurses, physicians, teachers, counselors, youth workers, police and correctional staff, school support staff, clergy, and community volunteers. Participation in the full two days is required. During the two days you will experience small group discussions and skills practice that are based upon adult learning principles. ASIST has five learning modules:
1. Introduction – sets the tone, norms and expectations of the learning experience.
2. Attitudes – sensitizes participants to their own attitudes towards suicide. Creates an understanding of the impact which attitudes have on the intervention process.
3. Knowledge – provides participants with the knowledge and skill to recognize and estimate the risk of suicide.
4. Intervention – presents a model for effective suicide intervention. Participants develop their skills through observation, supervised simulation experiences and role playing.
5. Resourcing/Networking – generates information about resources in the local community. Promotes a commitment by participants to transform local resources into helping networks.
The ASIST workshop is for caregivers who want to feel more comfortable, confident and competent in helping to prevent the immediate risk of suicide. Over one million caregivers have participated in this two-day, highly interactive, practical, practice-oriented workshop.