The Suicide Prevention Training Institute (SPTI) is offering an in-depth 2-day training to the general public. LivingWorks ASIST Training is generally reserved for caregivers, first responders, and educators but SPTI hopes to equip the public to save lives. Attendees can expect to learn to spot warning signs, how to help someone who is experiencing crisis, and improve general counseling and listening skills. Registration is now open for the Workshop: https://www.educatingtosavelives.org/events/. The Workshop will be held at St. James United Methodist Church, 16202 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa Florida 33647 from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. each day. Group classes may also be booked by contacting SPTI at spti@educatingtosavelives.org.

The average American is much more likely to encounter someone who needs suicide intervention than someone who needs CPR. According to FLHealthCharts.gov, in 2020, Hillsborough County had 12.2 deaths by suicide per 100,000 residents and that number doesn’t count attempts.

SUICIDE - The word caught your attention, didn't it? The truth is, suicide catches everyone's attention. It's the action leading up to suicide that goes unnoticed…Author Unknown

“Suicide is one of the leading causes of death nationwide and the rates have increased over the last 2 decades. It is imperative that as a society, we do all we can to prevent these needless deaths. Suicide can be prevented and each of us has a role in the prevention efforts. One of the goals of SPTI is increasing the help seeking culture for at-risk personnel. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. During the ASIST Workshop we provide participants with the tools necessary to respond to individuals who are facing suicidal crisis. Participants learn the warning signs for someone who is a risk for suicide and learn to develop a plan for safety that can protect life! Suicide prevention education is for everyone. The more people we can train, the greater impact we can have to reduce the suicide rate.” -Dr. T.C. Copper

SPTI hopes to make suicide prevention as accessible as CPR and First Aid training. For more information, contact SPTI at 813-807-SPTI (7784) Email: spti@educatingtosavelives.org.

The SPTI focus is prevention. If you are in crisis, or know someone who is, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), 988 or 911.

About: The Suicide Prevention Training Institute Inc. is a 501 (ϲ)(3) Non-Profit Organization located in the Greater Tampa Bay Region and exists to provide evidence-based educational opportunities to the Community designed to develop advocates for suicide prevention. Educate to identify the risk factors for suicide and equip them with effective intervention skills.