Who
Alaska Applied Suicide Intervention Trainers (AKASIST) are a group of experienced Alaskan professionals with specfic training in the delivery of Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST).
What
ASIST is a two day suicide first aid workshop offering practical training for professional and non-professional community cargivers seeking to prevent the immediate risk of suicide.
Participants often include:
teachers dorm advisors and houseparents
ministers law enforcement
counselors doctors, nurses, health aides
volunteers natural helpers
anyone concerned about a family member, friend or co-worker
Working in small groups of one trainer to no more than 15 participants, ASIST uses a variety of teaching processes to create a practice-oriented interactive learning experience.
Why
Alaska has one of the higest rates of suicide in the country, in 2005 a rate of 19/100,000 people compared to a US rate of 11/100,000 people. Alaska men, older teens and young adults, and Alaska Natives die by suicide at even higher rates. Most people considering suicide let others know about their pain and their intent. An appropriate response can save a life.
Why ASIST
ASIST trained community "gatekeepers" know how to recognize and respond appropriately to invitations to help. ASIST is an award-winning program developed by LivingWorks which has been working for almost 25 years to help communities become suicide-safer. There are over 3,000 ASIST trainers around the world and the program has been translated into several languages. Evaluations have shown that the workshop increases knowledge and confidence to respond to a person at risk, and that the intervention skills learned are remembered and put to use to save lives.
Why Alaska ASIST Trainers
Alaska ASIST Trainers have wide experience working in rural Alaskan communities, with adolescents and with veterans. They have delivered ASIST trainings in cities and villages, to professionals and non-professionals throughout the state and are able to adapt the training to best meet the needs of specific populations and settings.
If you are thinking about suicide or worried about a family member or friend please call 1-800-273-TALK. There is help. There is hope.