Suicide Awareness Training
Suicide Awareness Training
This free online course from BESA Academy teaches basic suicide awareness and prevention skills. Anyone aged 16 and over can take this training to learn what to do if they are ever in a situation where someone they know or see may be struggling with thoughts of suicide. We believe suicide is preventable, and we know that sometimes all it takes to save a life is a conversation.
This course is free of charge. Download your certificate on completion.
What You Will Learn
The training will take you through:
- Suicide risk factors
- Suicide warning signs
- Coached scenarios sharing approaches for how you can talk to someone you are worried about
- Videos from people sharing real experiences
- Where to find information about available support
Who Should Take This Course?
This training is aimed at anyone aged 16 and over who wants to know what to do if they are ever in a situation where someone they know or see may be struggling with thoughts of suicide. This includes employees, managers, colleagues, friends, family members, or anyone who wants to feel more confident supporting someone in distress.
Why Suicide Awareness Matters
Suicide is preventable, and sometimes all it takes to save a life is a conversation. Understanding the risk factors and warning signs, knowing how to approach someone who may be struggling, and being aware of where to find support can make a critical difference.
This training equips people with the confidence and skills to talk to someone they are worried about, helping to reduce stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health and suicide prevention.
The Benefits of This Course
Completing this course will help you:
- Recognise suicide risk factors and warning signs
- Feel more confident talking to someone you are worried about
- Learn practical approaches for starting a conversation
- Understand where to find support and resources
- Help reduce stigma around mental health and suicide
- Potentially save a life through early intervention
Course Format
Format: 100% online, self-paced
Age requirement: 16 and over
Certification: Training certificate available to download on completion
Cost: Free of charge
We hope that through this training, more people will feel equipped and confident to talk to someone who may be struggling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is suicide awareness training?
Suicide awareness training helps individuals recognise the signs that someone may be struggling with suicidal thoughts and provides guidance on how to respond safely, start a supportive conversation, and direct the person to appropriate help.
Who can take this course?
This course is open to anyone aged 16 and over. It is suitable for employees, managers, friends, family members, and anyone who wants to feel more confident supporting someone in distress.
Do I need any previous training or experience?
No prior knowledge or experience is required. The course is designed to be accessible and provides clear, practical guidance for people with no background in mental health training.
What will I learn from this course?
You will learn how to recognise suicide risk factors and warning signs, how to approach and talk to someone you are concerned about, and where to find appropriate support and resources.
Will this training qualify me to provide professional support?
No. This course is designed to provide basic awareness and guidance. It does not replace professional mental health training, but it equips you to respond appropriately and signpost someone to professional help.
What should I do if someone is in immediate danger?
If you believe someone is at immediate risk, you should contact emergency services or a relevant crisis support service straight away. This course highlights the importance of acting quickly and seeking professional help in urgent situations.
How long does the course take to complete?
The course is self-paced and can be completed online at your convenience. You can work through the material in your own time without fixed schedules.
Will I receive a certificate after completing the course?
Yes. After completing the training, you will be able to download a certificate confirming your participation.