CALM Suicide Intervention Skills – 16th January 2024

Suicide Intervention Prevention Skills training is a crucial program aimed at equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and intervene in situations where someone may be at risk of suicide. The acronym CALM, which stands for Connect, Assess, Listen, and Mobilize, serves as a framework for this training. By incorporating the CALM approach into their practice, professionals can effectively respond to individuals in crisis and provide the support needed to prevent suicide.

The Connect phase of the CALM Suicide Intervention Prevention Skills training emphasizes the importance of establishing a rapport and building trust with the individual in crisis. This involves actively listening, showing empathy, and using appropriate verbal and nonverbal communication techniques. By creating a safe and non-judgmental environment, professionals can encourage individuals to open up about their thoughts and feelings, paving the way for effective intervention.

Assessing the risk of suicide is a critical step in suicide prevention. The Suicide Intervention Prevention Skills training teaches professionals how to assess the severity of the individual’s suicidal thoughts and determine the level of immediate danger they may be in. This involves asking direct questions about suicidal ideation, intent, and plans, as well as evaluating the presence of protective factors such as social support or access to lethal means. Through comprehensive assessment, professionals can determine the appropriate level of intervention required to keep the individual safe.

Listening skills play a fundamental role in suicide intervention. The training emphasizes active listening techniques that encourage individuals to express their emotions and concerns openly. By validating their feelings and emotions, professionals can help individuals feel understood and supported. Additionally, active listening enables professionals to identify key risk factors, such as hopelessness or social isolation, which may contribute to an individual’s suicidal thoughts. Through effective listening, professionals can gain insight into the individual’s unique experiences and tailor their intervention accordingly.

The final phase of the CALM Suicide Intervention Prevention Skills training is Mobilize. This stage involves implementing appropriate interventions based on the assessment and listening phases. Professionals are trained to develop safety plans in collaboration with the individual, which outline coping strategies, support networks, and professional resources that can be accessed during times of crisis. Mobilizing also involves coordinating follow-up care and ensuring that individuals receive ongoing support beyond the immediate intervention.

In conclusion, Suicide Intervention Prevention Skills training such as CALM is essential in equipping individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to intervene in suicidal situations effectively. This training provides participants with a deep understanding of suicide risk factors, warning signs, and protective factors. By addressing access to lethal means and connecting individuals with appropriate resources, CALM Suicide Intervention Prevention Skills training aims to save lives and prevent future suicides.

“Join CALM today and save lives! Equip yourself with life-saving skills to intervene in suicidal situations. Take action now!”