Recognising signs of suicidality and how to respond in a crisis

This training is for anyone who is in the situation of responding to someone in crisis and contemplating suicide. Most times, the first people to be aware of a person in crisis are colleagues, friends, family members and even strangers. Suicide is the most preventable cause of death. Skills to respond and help someone get the professional help they need can save lives. Anyone can learn these skills.

In 2017 there were 3,128 completed suicides, a 9% rise from 2016 (ABS). In most instances, suicidality involves a great deal of ambivalence. It is sometimes thought of as a ‘permanent solution to a temporary problem’. The person experiencing suicidal thoughts and feelings or who becomes actively suicidal, is unable to think of an alternative strategy to their problems. In some instances, the person’s situation may not be temporary e.g. chronic illness, disability, or other life altering scenarios. There may be little or no access to, or resources for, support available, or awareness of those that are available.

Misconceptions around suicidality are common, such as those who talk about it will never do it, or the person who threatens suicide is ‘attention seeking’ and it is best to ignore overt or implied threats or, that the worst is over and the person seems much better.

Responding to expressions of suicidality is stressful and anxiety provoking. People often fear saying the wrong thing and exacerbating distress.

This is not suicide assessment or counselling training it is for anyone in any occupation, profession or walk of life. This training outlines four motivations for suicide, three levels of suicidality, risk factors and predictors, protective factors, and guidance in responding to expressions of suicide.