Talking About Suicide – Understanding Myths, Realities and Approaches

Capability level: Emerging, Evolving

Event description:

The fear of a client attempting suicide can often influence our clinical judgment, leading many practitioners to rely heavily on referral to emergency services. While this is sometimes necessary, it can also mean that opportunities for supportive, social, and therapeutic interventions are missed. Misperceptions about suicidal risk remain common, with too little emphasis placed on the broader social determinants of mental health and wellbeing.

This program offers participants the chance to explore suicide prevention through an evidence-informed lens, moving beyond a purely clinical risk-management approach. It will highlight the importance of social context, relationships, and community in supporting people experiencing suicidality. The training will also provide a safe space for practitioners to reflect on their own responses to acute distress and to strengthen confidence in working with clients compassionately and effectively.

Who should attend?

This webinar is designed for social workers seeking to strengthen their knowledge, challenge assumptions, and build confidence in discussing suicide and supporting clients experiencing suicidal distress.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this program, participants will be able to:

• Develop a more evidence-based understanding of suicide prevention.
• Demonstrate greater confidence in responding to acute distress.
• Adopt a social approach to suicide that recognises the role of social determinants.

Event structure:

Introduction (10 minutes)

Learning Session 1: Predicting and preventing suicide – what is possible (25 mins)

• Learning Activity 1: Reflection

Learning Session 2: How to talk about suicide (15 minutes)

Learning Session 3: Myths and realities (25 minutes)

• Learning Activity 3: Group Discussion

Conclusion + Q&A (15 minutes)

Can't attend live? Your registration includes a copy of the presentation slides and 2 weeks' free access to the event recording.

AASW Credentials: Mental Health (General), Clinical SW