Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)

In this training, you'll:

• Explore how beliefs and attitudes about suicide can affect people who are struggling and those who support them
• Build confidence in talking openly and safely with someone about suicide
• Learn how to recognize warning signs and create a safety plan
• Discover resources and supports that can help
• Understand the importance of self-care as part of a broader approach to suicide prevention

About the training:

ASIST is a two-day, certified training that equips participants with the skills to recognize and respond to someone at risk of suicide. Through discussion, realistic scenarios, and hands-on practice, participants learn how to have supportive conversations, create safety plans, and connect individuals with resources. Participants will receive a certificate from the Centre for Suicide Prevention which is valid for three years.

Please note that this workshop content could potentially be distressing for some. ASIST is not recommended for individuals who have had a recent suicide loss.

ASIST Eligibility Requirements:

For Campus Well-Being Services hosted ASIST workshops, full costs are covered, allowing eligible students to attend at no charge to enhance their ability to support peers and contribute to a caring campus community. 

ASIST is open to current UCalgary students who:

• Are in roles that support or connect with other students (e.g. peer helpers, mentors, student leaders, co-op students, community advisors, etc.)
• Have completed Community Helpers Training: Skills for Supporting Others at UCalgary
• Will remain enrolled as a student at UCalgary for at least one semester following the training 

Apply to Attend an Upcoming ASIST

ASIST is offered by Campus Well-Being Services a limited number of times per year, and students must apply to attend. Click Here for more information about upcoming dates and to complete the ASIST Application Form.