It’s official. I am certified for suicide prevention intervention!

Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) is a 2-day interactive workshop in suicide first aid. ASIST teaches participants to recognize when someone may have thoughts of suicide and work with them to create a plan that will support their immediate safety. The emphasis is on Safe For Now and is supported by an evidence-based protocol. There is considerable role play to put what you learn into practice.

ASIST is widely used by healthcare providers, however you don’t need formal training to attend the workshop. Anyone 16 and up can learn and use the ASIST model. Thanks to AFSP, American Foundation of Suicide Prevention, ASIST training in Richmond, Virginia and throughout the state doesn’t cost you anything. Money raised through the Out of the Darkness Walks, funds these classes.

• You can take ASIST, the 2-day course
• You can take SAFEtalk, which is a 3-hour course
• You can request the one hour ‘Talk Saves Lives’ presentation for your group
• There is also Mental Health First Aid, also taught in most areas now
• To see more about training courses for suicide prevention, see LivingWorks

The more people who take these courses, the more people we can keep safe for now. Most of these courses are offered through Department of Behavioral Health and the Community Service Boards. Education is our best defense for preventing suicide in our communities.

Visit AFSP Virginia for more information about the Virginia chapter. Visit AFSP.org for your state chapter.

You want to request a class or workshop for your organization? Use my contact form and I’ll send you contact info for getting a presentation or workshop of your choice at your organization.