Training in Scotland

Training forms a significant part of the Choose Life National Strategy and Action Plan to Prevent Suicide in Scotland.

Many people who are feeling suicidal signal their intent, whether it be verbally or through behavioural change. Therefore, the more people who feel confident and willing to explore possible signs of suicide risk and provide support and help, the more lives could be saved.

Often people do not want to intervene for fear of making someone’s situation worse. They are afraid to say the wrong thing or the stigma attached to suicide means they avoid, ignore or do not recognise the signs of suicidal thoughts. We need to lift the taboo and talk about suicide as a serious community issue then reach out as widely as possible to get people involved in suicide prevention. This is where training forms a vital role. Awareness needs to be raised within all sections of the community and as broad a range of people possible given the necessary skills and confidence to reach out to someone who needs help.

Suicide can affect any one of us and it is our responsibility to find ways to make suicide-safer communities.