The Role You Play in Preventing Suicide as an Occupational Therapy Practitioner (Self Paced)

Course overview

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, suicide is a major public health concern. It is the 11th leading cause of death in the U.S. and is on the rise in some populations. When someone is experiencing a mental health crisis and/or experiencing suicidal ideations, this can lead to a large disruption in a client's performance and participation in daily occupations. Research shows that healthcare practitioners play a key role in reducing suicide rates. Occupational therapy practitioners can have a profound impact in their clients' lives by being prepared to recognize warning signs, safely discuss suicide, and address suicidal ideations through intervention or referral. This course will give OT practitioners a baseline understanding of suicide and prepare them for possibly addressing suicidal ideations in practice settings for adult and pediatric populations. Target Audience: Occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants and students in all settings. Learning Objectives: Explain safe language to use regarding suicide and the significance of safe language in suicide prevention. Identify risk factors and warning signs of suicide in themselves and others. Describe suicide ideation and the appropriate steps to take to help a someone who may be at risk of suicide.