ACTS Consulting Online School

The risk of suicide is significantly elevated among persons who abuse alcohol or other drugs, even more than the general population. Therefore, it is critical for the helping professional and substance abuse professional to understand pertinent information about suicidal behavior. This course focused on information about the occurrence of suicide, warning signs, risk and protective factors, and specific points to remember about suicidality. Last, GATE, a four-step process for identifying and responding to suicidality is reviewed in detail.

Objectives: Participants will

1. Basic suggestions for addressing suicidal thoughts and behaviors, along with points to keep you on track 
2. Background information about suicide and substance use disorders, including risk and protective factors and warning signs for suicide. 
3. A four-step process for addressing suicidal thoughts and behaviors in substance abuse treatment, summarized by the acronym GATE (Gather information, Access supervision, Take responsible action, and Extend the action). 
4. Complete Application to Practice lessons

Course Modality: This is an independent home-study course. Students will take the course according to their own timeline. 

Course Completion: To receive the course certificate, each student is required to agree to Student Learning Contract, read all text-based materials, view any media posted, complete and pass course examination, and complete and submit course evaluation. 

Note: Posted materials are free from SAMHSA and other public domain sites. 

Course fee applies for continuing education hours and a certificate of completion.