The Suicide Education service helps prevent suicide through comprehensive awareness building in the community. Prevention is achieved through tailored education sessions available to schools, agencies and adults groups. The sessions target suicide stigma and create a better understanding of this important issue by covering topics like myths, warning signs, as well as how and where to turn for help.

How the presentation works
Topics covered in the presentation
Additional topics available
Booking a presentation

How the presentation works
Presentations are available for adult groups, businesses, educational institutions, non-profit agencies and otherwise. Youth presentations are formatted to within a class period and are available for Junior high students (grads 7-9) and Senior high students (grades 10-12). All presentations encourage audience participation and incorporate video and overhead interactivity.

Presentations are available within the boundaries of Calgary Region (see contact info below for more information) Presentations are free to schools only. There is a fee for service for presentations to adult groups, agencies, etc. Honorariums are accepted and greatly appreciated.

Topics covered in the presentation
-Myths of suicide
-Statistics and Stigma
-Contributors to suicidal ideation and suicide
-Warning signs and how to help a suicidal person
-Community resources available to provide assistance
- Risk assessment and no-harm contracts. (only covered in adult presentations)

Click here to learn more about other presentations offered through the CMHA.

Booking a presentation
Presentations can be requested and booked by calling (403) 297-1722, Monday to Friday from 8:30AM to 4:30PM. A minimum of one month's notice is required for basic suicide presentations and 2 months for presentations tailored around specific topics.

Information required when booking a presentation
-Name of contact person(s)
-Telephone number (including extension), fax number, and address
-Desired date and time of presentation(s)
-Number of attendees
-Grade (for students) or average age of attendees (for adults)
-Answers to the following information (when calling from a school):
-Are counselors available for the students?
-Is anyone at risk for suicide that the students know about?
-Has anyone attempted or died by suicide that the students know about?
-Are observers permitted to view a presentation?

Additional information required for booking
-If you are calling from a school, please ensure that adequate supervision can be supplied for the duration of the presentation. A teacher or supervisor must remain in the room in order to assist with behavioral concerns and further questions students may have after the presentation.
-It is strongly suggested that audience members be informed that the presentation is about suicide awareness so that they can make an informed decision regarding their attendance.

Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering is an important part of the Suicide Services program with opportunities available in the following areas:
* Delivery of Suicide Awareness Presentations in Junior and Senior High Schools.
* Delivery of Suicide Awareness Presentations to adult community groups.

For more information on this service call (403) 297-1722 or email: Suicide Services Education