Introduction & Purpose
This module introduces core concepts, scope, and learning outcomes for gatekeepers, psychology students, and social workers.
Understanding Suicide
Suicide is multifactorial — biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors interact. Awareness supports early action.
Warning Signs
- Verbal cues: hopelessness, desire to die
- Behavioural: withdrawal, substance use, giving away possessions
- Mood shifts: agitation, severe sadness
Protective Factors
Connections, coping skills, supportive environments, and access to care lower risk.
Myths vs Facts
Address common misconceptions clearly and compassionately.
Role of Psychology Freshers
As emerging professionals, focus on observational skills, empathy, and appropriate referral.
Role of Social Workers
Coordinate care, address systemic barriers, and link individuals to resources and support.
Active Listening Skills
Use open questions, reflect feelings, and summarise to show understanding.
Example: “It sounds like this has been very heavy for you lately.”
Risk Assessment
Ask about thoughts, plans, intent, timeline, and access to means in a calm manner.
Safety Planning
Co-create a written plan: warning signs, coping steps, contacts, and professional supports.
Building Rapport
Respect, warmth, and consistent follow-up build trust—essential for ongoing support.
Community Resources
Maintain an up-to-date list of crisis lines, mental health clinics, peer groups, and social services.
Confidentiality & Ethics
Explain limits of confidentiality clearly. Safety concerns may require breaching confidentiality to protect life.
Case Study — Student
A 20-year-old student feels hopeless after repeated failures. Discuss assessment, safety plan, and referrals.
Case Study — Community Member
A community member shows mood swings and isolation. How to engage, assess, and connect to services?
Building Support Networks
Leverage peers, family, schools, and health services to create a safety net.
Self-Care for Helpers
Use supervision, peer support, and structured debriefs to reduce burnout and secondary trauma.
Crisis Intervention Models
Implement brief models: Acknowledge, Be present, Connect to care (ABC); combine with safety planning.
Role-Play Exercises
Use structured scenarios to rehearse asking, listening, safety planning and referrals.
Reducing Stigma
Promote open conversations and education to normalise help-seeking among peers and clients.
Collaboration
Coordinate across sectors — mental health, education, social services, and community leaders.
Cultural Sensitivity
Adapt language and interventions to local beliefs; consult cultural brokers and community leaders.
Future Directions
Innovation in research, technology-assisted support, and stronger community systems will shape prevention efforts.
Summary & Next Steps
- Practice skills regularly
- Maintain referral and safety resources
- Debrief and support each other