Professional Training

Suicide deaths are often sudden, abrupt, and violent. The lack of anticipation alone can render the death traumatising to the next-of-kin, friends, neighbours, co-workers and even to the professionals. The Asian context still heavily stigmatises suicide. The significant others of the deceased, also known as ‘suicide survivors’, find themselves simultaneously dealing with other social and psychological aspects such as guilt and shame, social stigma and isolation unique to suicide deaths. Suicide survivors are also found to be at higher risk of mental health problems and increased risk of suicide.

For each suicide death, approximately 135 people suffer intense grief or are affected profoundly by the suicidal behaviour [IASP]. Professionals or para-counsellors in the helping profession may encounter clients who have lost someone through suicide or may themselves lose clients through suicide.

Post-crisis management for suicide loss involves activities that support the suicide survivors against the pervasive and persistent effects of the traumatic death through psychoeducation, psychological interventions, and mobilisation of resources. This can range from short to long-term intervention.

At Level 1, the focus is on rendering immediate assistance and support to suicide survivors. Participants will learn the knowledge and skills necessary to provide post-crisis support following a suicide death, drawing on current literature, real-life scenarios and simulated role play practices.

Practitioners, para-counsellors or those in supervisory positions who may encounter suicide losses in the course of their work and are potentially required to extend immediate post-crisis support to those affected by suicide death.

The skills and knowledge for this course, which the learner is assumed to possess, are as follows:

• Be able to listen and speak English at a proficiency level equivalent to the Employability Skills Workplace Literacy (WPL) Level 6
• Be able to read and write English at a proficiency level equivalent to the Employability Skills Workplace Literacy (WPL) Level 6
• Learners need to have basic knowledge of computer skills
• Preferably with relevant qualification or experience in the area of Social Work, Psychology, Counselling, Casework management, Education and/or Management

Mode of Delivery: Classroom and Asynchronous E-learning

Assessment Details: Written Assessment and Role Play

Remarks: The facilitated classroom will be conducted face-to-face at SOS. Learners will be required to attend the assessment (e.g. Role Play / Oral Interview) after the training.

• Day 0: Mandatory E-Learning (to be completed before Day 1 of training)
• Day 1: Facilitated Classroom Training (including a Written Assessment of 30 minutes)
• Day 2: Role Play / Oral Interview (30 minutes per learner)

Note: Block bookings by Agencies or Entities can be arranged separately. Minimum pax of 15 and maximum of 20 pax to start class.