Suicide Intervention Training in Crown Heights

Last week, 23 individuals joined a two day training to save lives and support fellow community members thinking about suicide. 

This workshop was organized by Neshamos, with experts in the field: Barb Smith from Saginaw Michigan and Laurin Jozlin from Oakland County Michigan  and taught the ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) method. 

Attendees learned to identify signs of suicide in others, how to reach out, connect and be there for those struggling with thoughts of suicide. 

“What I learnt in just 2 days gave me the tools that can help preserve a life ” shared Menucha Kin, training participant. 

Many of the attendees are teachers, therapists, social workers and already in contact with those at most risk to thoughts of suicide. 

Participants were trained to intervene in the event there is a concern for an individual who may be thinking of suicide, and how to assist and intervene. 

ASSIST trainer Barb Smith: “Do not be afraid to ask a person directly if they are thinking of suicide, you can not put the idea in someone’s head, but you can help save a life. Our hope is that all people learn the importance of having open and direct conversations about suicide”

Neshamos is on a mission to promote mental and emotional health within our community. To learn more about their efforts and to support their work, visit Neshamos.org