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). 

This is an informational course, Free of charge. No continuing education hours are awarded for this course.