Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)

Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) isa two-day, in-person interactive workshop in suicide first aid. ASIST teaches participants to recognize when someone may have thoughts of suicide and work with him/her to create a plan that will support their immediate safety. Although ASIST is widely used by healthcare providers, participants don’t need any formal training to attend the workshop—anyone 16 or older can learn and use the ASIST model.

Studies show that the ASIST method helps reduce suicidal feelings in those at risk and is a cost-effective way to help address the problem of suicide.

Participant learning goals and objectives:

• Understand the ways that personal and societal attitudes affect views on suicide and interventions
• Provide guidance and suicide first aid to a person at risk in ways that meet their individual safety needs
• Identify the key elements of an effective suicide safety plan and the actions required to implement it
• Appreciate the value of improving and integrating suicide prevention resources in the community at large
• Recognize other important aspects of suicide prevention including life-promotion and self-care

Workshop features:

• A scientifically proven intervention model
• Powerful audiovisual learning aids
• Group discussions
• Skills practice and development
• A balance of challenge and safety

ASIST has recently become available in an abbreviated online version. It is taught through the LivingWorks Start online platform. In just one hour, LivingWorks Start teaches trainees to recognize when someone is thinking about suicide and how to connect them to help and support.

Click here to register for this training. 

Coordinated by: MORH/AHEC Program Office