Suicide Prevention, Intervention

and Postvention Strategies (2 day)

To address the issue of suicide, a broad and diverse approach is needed. The first day of this workshop will teach caregivers the skills needed to identify and assist those at risk of suicide. The second day focuses on providing caregivers with tools to minimize the impact of a suicide on survivors. Participants will gain valuable insights into why suicide postvention is also suicide prevention. Also, a guide for how to develop a comprehensive suicide prevention plan will be presented, with emphasis on addressing the root risk factors that lead to suicide.

Workshop Outline

Day 1

Prevention, Introduction and Postvention
Suicide - The Whole Picture
Myths about Suicide
What's Happening with You and Your Community
Why Suicide
High Risk Factors
Warning Signs
Preparing to Work with Suicidality
Suicide Intervention Steps
General Do's and Don'ts
Difficult Questions and Statements
Strengths and Vulnerability

Day 2

Suicide and Self-Injury
The Chronically Suicidal Person
After a Suicide
Symptoms of Grief
The Complication of Suicide Grief
Supporting Healing from Suicide Loss
Reactions of Children
Steps for Supporting People
Trigger Events and Anniversaries
Suicide Postvention
Suicide Contagion and Clusters
Working with Attempted Suicide Survivors
Suicide Prevention Plan Development
Caring for the Caregiver

Target Audience

This is an introductory-intermediate level workshop intended for social service and health care professionals, teachers, social workers, youth care workers and anyone wanting to explore suicide prevention strategies.

Method of Instruction

Lecture, personal reflection, case sudy exercises, skill development and small group discussion