The Shawnee County Suicide Prevention Coalition will be hosting an Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) workshop from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 25 and 26 at Washburn in the Memorial Union. Be sure to register by July 15 at www.paraclete.life/events or by calling 785-422-6730.

When asked about the Shawnee County Suicide Prevention Coalition, university counselor Emily Meyerhoffer-Kubalik said, “The Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) training at Washburn University is being offered to the Shawnee County community through the Shawnee County Suicide Prevention Coalition. Through the Coalition’s sponsorship, this training is being offered to the community for free to those who live or work in Shawnee County. More information about the Shawnee County Suicide Prevention Coalition can be found at http://www.scspc.org/.”

The workshop aims to educate and equip people with useful tools and skills for preventing suicide. There will be additional opportunities at Washburn as well.

“While there are no specific dates for future ASIST programs currently available, the trainings are offered as part of longstanding partnerships between the Shawnee County Suicide Prevention Coalition, Washburn University Counseling Services, and the trainers at Paraclete Life. The coalition typically aims to provide two to three trainings each year. While locations do vary, trainings are frequently held at Washburn University,” said Meyerhoffer-Kubalik.

Everyone on campus can become better equipped to recognize the signs that could signify an individual is experiencing suicidal idealization. There are many ways to go about better educating oneself and being more prepared.

Meyerhoffer-Kubalik offered many methods.

“We can all help prevent suicide through educating ourselves on the warning signs, knowing resources for help, and supporting suicide prevention efforts. On an individual level, if you are concerned about someone in your life, you can reach out to them to just check-in or provide support, ask them if they are thinking of suicide if you are worried or recognize warning signs, and refer them to an appropriate resource for help. Pursuing training in suicide prevention is a great step. Training can help you build awareness of warning signs, learn intervention skills, and improve your confidence to help someone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts. In addition to ASIST, other formal and informal trainings are available to the Washburn community,” said Meyerhoffer-Kubalik.

Some of these additional opportunities include Ask Listen Refer and QPR. Ask Listen Refer is a free online training that anyone can complete in 15 to 20 minutes and can be accessed at http://www.asklistenrefer.org/washburn. QPR is a 60 to 90 minute training available to classes and groups upon request. Training is $2.95 per person to cover the cost of required materials. 

Meyerhoffer-Kubalik also said, “Informal trainings for groups and classes regarding suicide prevention may be requested through counseling services and can be tailored to meet the desired needs and focus. It is also important to know your resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number which is 1-800-273-8255. There is also a national Crisis Text Line that can reached by texting “HOME” to 741741. Both of the resources provide free, 24/7 crisis support.”

Be sure to take advantage of this important opportunity during July 25 and 26, and look for future training workshops as well.

Edited by Abbie Barth and Joelle Conway