In 2023, we launched our suicide prevention training program for service providers as part of our capacity-building programming. Globally, approximately 800,000 people die by suicide each year. Service providers often experience significant emotional distress when working with people who are suicidal. However, there are evidence-based interventions that can help reduce acute suicide risk. By training frontline workers in suicide prevention, we not only improve the quality of care for clients, but also ensure staff receive the necessary support to manage their own work-related stress.
Our suicide prevention training provides trainees with an introductory-level understanding of suicide prevention and is appropriate for individuals of all professional backgrounds. We teach simple, evidence-based tools that people can implement without any prior formal mental health training. The training program provides an introduction to suicidal ideation and behavior, the suicide spectrum, myths about suicide, and risks and protective factors for suicide. Our trainings teach practitioners concrete tools for how to assess suicide risk, implement an evidence-based suicide prevention intervention, monitor ongoing suicide risk, and conduct client follow-up. We use experiential learning pedagogies to strengthen skill building. Additionally, we offer management consultations and training to help agencies develop suicide response protocols according to their specific needs.
Our training sessions cater to the needs of agencies anywhere globally and can be provided in-person, virtually, or in a hybrid setup. Organizations can contract for a 1-day, 2-day, 3-day, or 4-day training depending on needs or priorities. For more flexibility, virtual trainings can be provided through mini-sessions spread across multiple days. We work closely with agencies to tailor the training to their specific needs and ensure maximum impact in diverse community settings.
We are looking to expand this training program globally in 2024. If you’re interested in our suicide prevention training, contact us at info@eleisonfoundation.org or message us here.
