Suicide Prevention Framework

Update: As of January 2023, the Suicide Prevention Framework Implementation Committee completed the implementation of core recommendations outlined in the framework. The framework continues to guide suicide prevention efforts at the U of A, informing the five themes highlighted below. At this time, the Implementation Committee is reviewing the framework in conjunction with the implementation of the National Standard for Mental Health and Well-being for Post-Secondary Students at the U of A.

Mental health and wellness is an important aspect of the learning and working environment at the University of Alberta, and no aspect of mental health is more compelling than the prevention of suicide among the student and faculty/staff population. In November 2014, the Dean of Students called for the development of a university-wide suicide prevention framework. Although the U of A has an existing network that directly and indirectly supports mental health and wellness, the intention was to create a comprehensive review with a particular focus on suicide prevention to create significant improvements. This sharpened focus would help guide an investigation of current practices and processes, the identification of gaps in services and supports, and the review of best practices for implementation at the U of A.

The U of A Suicide Prevention Framework report is the result of that investigation and outlines a five-part framework for enhancing suicide prevention. Specifically, this report identified 36 recommendations across the five categories to build upon student, staff, and faculty mental health and wellness services and to improve the capacity and capability for suicide prevention at the U of A. In addition to the recommendations, suggestions for assessment and sustainability are also provided.

A Five-Part Framework

Suicide impacts our entire community - students, staff and faculty. The U of A's Suicide Prevention Framework acknowledges the systemic relationship between members of our community and addresses recommendations across five dimensions:

1. Policy & Implementation
2. Education, Awareness & Communication
3. Supports & Services
4. A Welcoming, Connected & Supportive Campus Community
5. Supports Following a Campus Death

It Takes a Community

The U of A is proud to make this framework available to the community in support of de-stigmatizing mental illness and enhancing how and where we support suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention across our campuses.

For more information regarding the framework, please email dosdean@ualberta.ca or call 780-492-4145.

Training and Resources

Community Helpers Program

The program builds on your natural helping ability by providing you with the skills and knowledge necessary to support your peers' mental health and well-being.

How to Have a Supportive Conversation

The Community Social Work Team in partnership with Counselling and Clinical Services have developed a practical 60-minute workshop to address basic listening, supporting, and referring skills and strategies for staff members who work directly with students.

Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) Training

QPR is a certified suicide prevention training program that teaches the skills to recognize and support people who may be having thoughts of suicide.

Suicide Prevention Awareness at the U of A

Suicide Prevention Campaign January 2023 

Days of Action: World Suicide Prevention Day

Human Resources Health, Safety, and Environment Suicide Awareness and Prevention 

On-Campus Support