Empowering Communities Through safeTALK Workshops
Over the past several years, I’ve had the opportunity to co-facilitate more than eight safeTALK workshops throughout BC, including:
- Terrace
- Tumbler Ridge
- Quesnel
- Fort St. John
- Surrey
- Port Coquitlam
- Agassiz
- Port Alberni
These sessions have primarily served:
- Métis chartered communities
- School district Indigenous support workers
- Secondary school students
- Treatment centers
- Various community service groups that serve a large Indigenous population
The goal of the safeTALK workshop is to equip participants with the skills needed to approach someone and ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide —a task that many find challenging due to the discomfort surrounding suicide.
If that person is having thoughts of suicide, the workshop participant connects that person with someone who can take over and has the skills to help keep them safe.
Understanding the safeTALK Approach
Sometimes, attendees come with the understanding that the training will focus on supporting individuals already experiencing suicidal thoughts.
However, safeTALK is about learning how to initiate a conversation about suicide.
This ensures that we don’t miss, dismiss, or avoid crucial signs (or as safeTALK calls it, “Invitations”) that the person is thinking of suicide and asking for help.
It’s essential to ask directly, despite the discomfort, because avoiding the topic can prevent us from addressing it effectively.
The Workshop Experience
As facilitators, we emphasize safety and effectiveness in sharing this vital information.
A community support person, trained in either ASIST or a similar suicide prevention program, is always present to assist if anyone becomes triggered during the training.
The safeTALK Workshop is an intensive four to six-hour in-person training designed for participants aged 15 and older who want to make a difference.
The training combines presentations, audio-visual components, and interactive exercises.
Participants learn and practice a four-step model for engaging someone in open conversation about suicide.
At the end of the training, each of the participants receive a “talk wallet card” which serves as a handy guide for the 4-step model.
The participants also receive discussion-promoting stickers which can be worn to help raise awareness.
Building a Network of Support
During the workshop, a list of community resources is provided to help support ongoing interventions.
The training helps participants feel comfortable in their ability to connect someone with a suicide prevention professional if needed.
There is a certificate of completion given to all participants at the end of the workshop.
LivingWorks, the organization behind safeTALK, has a wealth of experience providing this training both in Canada and worldwide, ensuring that communities everywhere have the tools to address and prevent suicide effectively.
Would you like more information?
