ASIST
What is ASIST
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) is a two-day, evidence-based workshop developed by LivingWorks, specializing in suicide intervention. With 40 years of experience, ASIST is widely recognized and respected in the field for its effectiveness in training individuals to provide support in crisis situations.
Workshop Overview
Format and Duration
This two-day workshop (totalling 16 hours) is conducted in person, fostering dynamic interactions and deep engagement between the trainer and participants.
Who should Attend?
While ASIST is designed to be accessible to all, this workshop is best suited for:
Direct Service Providers
Social workers, counsellors, healthcare professionals, and others in psychological/social services.
Community Support Workers
First responders, educators, and faith leaders who regularly engage with at-risk populations
Committed Individuals
Those passionate about suicide prevention but without professional experience, we encourage you to first complete safeTALK* for foundational knowledge become attending ASIST.
*You can view more information about safeTALK here
Key Features
This interactive workshop prioritizes skill-building through experiential learning, creating a safe space for participants to engage deeply with suicide prevention strategies.
Guided Discovery
Trainers facilitate rather than lecture, helping participants actively learn the intervention model with structured support.
Small Group Discussions
Participants will engage in a safe and supportive environment that encourages open dialogue about suicide prevention.
Hands-on Practice
Through realistic role-playing scenarios, participants will actively apply the crisis intervention model while receiving live coaching from trainers. This approach enhances both competence and confidence in their response skills.
Learning Objectives
Identify individuals with suicidal thoughts
Intervene effectively using a proven crisis model
Develop the willingness and readiness to approach individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts
Strengthen active listening skills and the ability to provide unjudgmental support
Create and implement personalized safety plans to protect at-risk individuals
Evidence-based
ASIST is a rigorously researched and evidence-based suicide prevention program. Multiple peer-reviewed studies confirm its effectiveness in improving intervention skills, reducing suicidal ideation.
A recent study on ASIST found that participants showed significant improvements in competence and knowledge related to suicide intervention, with these gains maintained over three months. After completing ASIST, you will experience:
SIST training equips professionals and community gatekeepers with the essential skills and confidence to effectively intervene with individuals at risk of suicide. Studies show that participants report significant improvements in their perceived competence and overall efficacy after completing the workshop, gaining a deeper understanding of risk factors and intervention strategies. This enhanced knowledge translates into greater confidence in recognizing warning signs and responding appropriately, a critical factor in clinical and community settings where timely intervention can save lives
Improved Attitudes Toward Suicide
Training in ASIST fosters a shift in attitudes toward suicide, promoting empathy and reducing stigma among participants. Studies indicate that individuals who undergo ASIST training develop more positive attitudes toward suicidal individuals, which can influence their willingness to engage and provide support. This cultural shift is vital in creating a supportive environment for those in crisis.
Immediate Reduction in Reluctance
One of the immediate benefits of ASIST training is a noticeable decrease in participants' reluctance to engage with individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts. Research has shown that post-training, gatekeepers exhibit increased self-efficacy and confidence in their ability to intervene. This newfound confidence ultimately lead to timely interventions that can save lives.
Long-term Retention of Skills
The skills learned in ASIST are not just a one-time benefit; they are retained long after the training. Participants have been shown to maintain their improvements in suicide-related competence and intervention skills at follow-up assessments, often several months post-training. This long-term retention ensures that gatekeepers are continuously equipped to provide support, fostering an environment where individuals at risk feel safe and understood.
ASIST is designed for everyone. It equips community members with life-saving skills. The training has been validated by research involving diverse groups, including individuals from various backgrounds and experiences. It is accessible to anyone who wants to learn how to help those around them.
Engaging Feedback
I think the role-playing was really helpful, and it increased my confidence in applying ASIST in my daily life. I have learned a lot about how to approach these situations.
Research Assistant
A very well-structured session plan with detailed materials. The role-play exercises helped a lot. :)
Social worker
I think ASIST is a very clear, well-structured model that is easy to pick up. The trainers delivered the training clearly, with examples and role-plays.
Counselor
Highly professional, taught conscientiously, clear and easy to understand, and readily applicable.
Pastor
The workshop was comprehensive, with philosophical perspectives on suicide, a theoretical framework, demonstrations, and role-play practice. All trainers were well prepared.