Principles of suicide and self-harm prevention

1. Understand the role of conversation in the prevention of self-harm and suicide.

• 1.1 Outline thoughts and feelings individuals may express when considering self-harm and suicide.
• 1.2 Describe the importance of considering the individual’s feelings when holding a conversation with them about self-harm and suicide
• 1.3 Outline why it is important to stay calm when talking to an individual
• 1.4 Give examples of when a conversation with an individual showing signs of self-harm or suicide is: • appropriate • crucial
• 1.5 Explain why it is important to ask direct questions to prevent self-harm and suicide
• 1.6 Describe barriers that individuals may come across when talking about self-harm and suicide
• 1.7 Describe methods of overcoming barriers to conversations about self-harm and suicide

2. Understand the importance of family and friend support in the prevention of selfharm and suicide.

• 2.1 Describe the impact of self-harm and suicide on: • family • friend • society
• 2.2 Outline ways friends and family can help the following individuals through episodes of self-harm and suicidal tendencies: • children and young people • adults
• 2.3 Explain the importance of friends and family acknowledging the feelings that are being displayed by an individual who is expressing thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• 2.4 Explain the importance of self-care when supporting others
• 2.5 Explain the importance of reducing access to tools which may be used by individuals to self-harm or attempt suicide in a time of crisis

3. Know the support options available to individuals and families in relation to selfharm and suicide.

• 3.1 Identify local and national sources of support for issues related to self-harm and suicide for: • individuals • families and loved ones.
• 3.2 Outline support available to aid the prevention of self-harm and suicide in those individuals engaging in self-harm.
• 3.3 Explain the importance of guiding individuals to support resources.
• 3.4 Explain how to access support on behalf of an individual.

4 Understand the role of suicide prevention campaigns.

• 4.1 Describe the purpose of suicide prevention campaigns.
• 4.2 Identify examples of suicide prevention campaigns.
• 4.3 Evaluate the effectiveness of a specific suicide prevention campaign.

5 Understand the importance of encouraging healthy coping strategies.

• 5.1 Define what is meant by the following terms: • healthy coping strategy • healthy lifestyle.
• 5.2 Give examples of healthy coping strategies for promoting mental health.
• 5.3 Describe the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.
• 5.4 Explain how the adoption of the following can contribute to the prevention of self-harm and suicide: • healthy coping strategies • healthy lifestyles.