Easy Read Module Suicide Prevention – Five Key Strategies

 

Module Purpose (Easy Read)

This module helps people understand:

• Why suicide prevention matters

• How to reduce risk

• How to support people safely

• That everyone can help, not just professionals

You do not need to be a counsellor to use these skills.

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Learning Outcomes (Easy Read)

By the end of this module, learners will:

• Understand what helps prevent suicide

• Know what puts people at risk

• Learn simple ways to support others

• Know when and how to get help

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Strategy 1: Reduce Access to Dangerous Items

What this means (Easy Read)

When someone is in crisis, they may act quickly.
If dangerous items are not easy to reach, it can save lives.

Examples:

• Lock away medicines

• Store sharp objects safely

• Secure firearms where relevant

• Keep chemicals and poisons out of reach

Why this helps:

• Crises often pass

• Removing danger gives time for help

• Many people survive because access was delayed

👉 This is about safety, not blame.

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Strategy 2: Increase Access to Mental Health Support

What this means

People need help early, not only in emergencies.

Support can include:

• Talking to someone they trust

• GP or doctor support

• Counselling or therapy

• Mental health charities

• Crisis lines

Important message:

Getting help does not mean someone is weak.
Mental health support is as important as physical health care.

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Strategy 3: Teach Coping and Problem-Solving Skills

What this means

People can learn ways to cope when life feels overwhelming.

Examples of coping skills:

• Talking instead of bottling things up

• Breathing and grounding exercises

• Breaking problems into smaller steps

• Asking for help

Problem-solving skills:

• Looking at options together

• Thinking about what might help now

• Taking one step at a time

👉 You are not fixing their life — you are helping them cope.

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Strategy 4: Strengthen Social and Economic Support

What this means

People struggle more when they feel:

• Alone

• Like a burden

• Unsafe

• Financially stressed

Support can include:

• Family and friends

• Support workers

• Community groups

• Education or workplace support

• Help with money, housing, or benefits

Why this matters:

Feeling supported helps people feel:

• Valued

• Less alone

• More hopeful

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Strategy 5: Promote Safe and Responsible Messaging

What this means

The way we talk about suicide matters.

Helpful messages:

• “You are not alone”

• “Help is available”

• “It’s okay to talk”

• “Your life matters”

Avoid:

• Blame

• Shame

• Judgement

• Saying suicide is selfish

Media and conversations should:

• Focus on hope and support

• Encourage help-seeking

• Avoid graphic detail

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Important Reminder (Easy Read)

Suicide prevention works best when:

• Individuals are supported

• Families are involved

• Communities care

• Services work together

This helps build protective factors and reduce risk factors.

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Who This Module Is For

This module is suitable for:

• Students

• Trainee carers

• Nurses

• Support workers

• Teachers and tutors

• Advocates and mentors

• Volunteers

You do not need to be a professional counsellor.

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Safety Message

• Always think about your safety too

• Never promise secrecy

• If someone is in danger, get help