More than 3000 Australian lives were cut short last year, according to recent figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics – more than double the nation’s road toll.

This number is expected to be even greater this year. 

Those living in the Griffith area can do something about this with free workshops coming in October.

As part of the Murrumbidgee Suicide Prevention Program, Wellways is offering free suicide prevention workshops called “ASIST” or Applied Suicide Intervention Skills.

A two-day workshop will be held on Wednesday 24 and Thursday 25 at the NSW Rural Fire Service on Wakaden Street.

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) CEO Melissa Neal said the PHN has funded approximately $1.5 million over the past two years for the suicide prevention program.

“As suicide rates continue to rise its important communities are supported to recognize and respond to suicide risk,” Ms Neal said.

ASIST is a scientifically-proven method that provides practical skills to people. The training provides caregivers with skills and knowledge around how to connect with a person who may be at risk of suicide, understand the risk and link them to additional supports.

This interactive 15-hour workshop is delivered over two days by accredited trainers.

Workshops can also be delivered to 15-30 participants at workplaces, schools or to community groups and are available to people aged 16 years and over.

This program is supported by funding from MPHN through the Australian Government’s PHN Program. There is no cost to attend the training.

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Wellways is a leading not-for-profit organisation providing mental health support services.

If you would like more information about ASIST please click here. 

To register your interest, phone local Suicide Prevention Support Coordinator Carolyn Drinkwater on 0436 342 381, email cdrinkwater@wellways.org or visit www.wellways.org/our-services/creating-suicide-safe-communities.

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.

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