Idaho State University youth suicide prevention project to offer free trainings in McCall, Pocatello, Twin Falls

Registration is now being accepted for Idaho State University’s Institute of Rural Health youth suicide prevention training in McCall Aug. 16, in Pocatello on Sept. 21 and in Twin Falls Sept. 14.

These trainings are designed to provide the latest scientific information on the warning signs, risk and protective factors for suicide and mental illness, along with practical guidance on how to identify youth at risk for suicide.  Information will assist professionals, community leaders, parents, advocates and all those who care for children and youth.

• The McCall traning will be held at the Community Congregational Church in the Fellowship Hall at 901 First Street on Monday, Aug. 16 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• The Twin Falls training will be held at the Eastside Baptist Church in Twin Falls at 204 Eastland Drive North on Tuesday, Sept. 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• The course will be repeated in Pocatello on Tuesday, Sept. 21, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Idaho State University in the Pond Student Union North and Middle Fork Salmon River Rooms. The Union is located at 921 S. Eighth Ave.

Continuing Education credit is offered to social workers, nurses and licensed counselors who attend the entire six-hour training. Others who attend will receive certificates of completion.

This training is free and open to the community, but seating is limited.  Pre-registration is required. 

To register, visit http://isu.edu/irh/, or contact Kristi Beck at (209) 282-4436 or preventsuicide@isu.edu.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Idahoans aged 15-34. According to the Suicide Prevention Action Network in Idaho, the state had the 10th highest suicide rate in the nation in 2006, 36 percent higher than the national average.

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