Registration open for youth suicide prevention training in Sandpoint offered by Idaho State University Insitute of Rural Health

Registration is now being accepted for Idaho State University's Institute of Rural Health youth suicide prevention training in Sandpoint on May 3.

The nationally recognized training is free and open to the public, but seats are limited. Pre-registration is required. The training will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The training is 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 and young adults at risk for suicide.  Information will assist professionals, community leaders, parents, advocates and all those who care for children and youth.

The training will be held at the Panhandle Health District, 1020 Michigan, Sandpoint. To register online, go to www.isu.edu/irh/ or contact Kirsti Beck at 208-282-4436 or email preventsuicide@isu.edu.

Continuing Education Credit is offered to social workers, nurses and licensed counselors who attend the entire six hour training. Continuing education credits also are offered through the Peace Officers Standards and Training Academy (POST). Others who attend the entire training will receive certificates of completion.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Idaho youth aged 15-34.  According to the American Association of Suicidology, Idaho's suicide rate ranked 4th in the Nation in 2009.

The project is funded through the Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act and administered by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration.

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