Teachers receive training to help suicidal students

SECONDARY school teachers have been given lessons on how to identify and help students who may be suicidal.

The South Eastern Health Board has developed a 14-hour education programme for school staff in suicide awareness. The first six-week programme has ended and more courses are being planned at the Kilkenny Education Centre.

"This training was in response to a recommendation by the Task Force Report on Suicide which says that teachers at all levels be supported in respect of the psychological and social dimension of their work," according to a health board spokesperson.

"The aim of the course was to improve the knowledge and competency of selected school staff in the recognition and management of potentially suicidal young people. It also aimed to develop the staff members ability to access support for staff and students in the event of a death by suicide or sudden death," he added.

The course covers areas such as youth suicide, information about the incidence of suicide, depression, risk/protective factors and warning signs.

Attitudes to suicide are also explored. Those who attend get an opportunity to explore their attitudes towards the issue of suicide and suicide prevention. A key part of the course is the identification of students at potential risk. Teachers are given an opportunity to learn basic skills in initiating contact with a distressed student, how to respond in an incident and how to develop an action plan for safety.

Practical steps for responding are also given. These are critically important in environments such as schools where responding to the needs of a school population in the event of a suicide/sudden death, bereavement or loss can be particularly difficult.

The rationale for having a suicide prevention policy content of the policy and how it supports staff in their role in prevention are also discussed.

The Suicide Resource Office also provides training to schools, parents, community groups, health care staff and youth groups.

* For further information contact The Suicide Resource Office at 051-874013.