Imagining a Brighter Future
By Line Perron and Salvi Cammarata
More than 500 individuals die by suicide each year in Alberta. The impact on families and community is devastating. Learning about the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to offer hope and support is knowledge we can all hold as community members. With a little intention, we can also engage in trauma-informed interactions that provide increased safety, choice and control for individuals struggling with past trauma.
Imagine Institute is proud to be partnering with Living Hope to provide Edmontonians with tools and strategies they can use in their personal and professional life to make a difference, and save a life. The following are two of the courses being offered through Imagine Institute and can be accessed on the 11 of Us website.
1. Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) – 3 Hours
2. Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) – 2 Days
In the last year, hundreds of citizens from various sectors and occupations have attended these trainings. First responders, health practitioners, social workers, educators, early childhood educators, business owners, hair stylists, tradespeople and general members of the community have found value in having this knowledge at their fingertips.
“This training is so important for every person! It not only translates to issues in the professional world but also on a more personal level! It covers so many well researched principles and you leave feeling full and ready to engage.” (TIC)
“I am now aware of the warning signs of suicidal behaviour and am more comfortable to approach and assist clients in need of this service.” (QPR)
“It made me realize how very uncomfortable I really am talking about suicide and now I can do something about it.” (QPR)
We know the value of building knowledge at the community level and the positive impact of empowering citizens to support one another. Two out of three people will experience traumatic events in their life. Research shows that a trauma-informed approach can reduce re-traumatization, increase staff retention and contribute to suicide prevention. Together, we can make the future brighter.