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 Office of the Dean of Students 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 student affairs at the University of Alberta, and no aspect of mental health is more compelling than the prevention of suicide among the student 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 of student services that directly or indirectly support student mental health and wellness, the intention was to create a comprehensive review with a particular focus on suicide prevention in order 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.

Need Help Now

Urgent support resources for students at risk. If there is an immediate risk of harm to yourself or others, contact 911.

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

Wellness Supports Social Work Team
2-300 SUB
780-492-1619

Counselling & Clinical Services
2-600 SUB
780-492-5205

First Peoples House
2-400 SUB
780-492-5677

Interfaith Chaplains' Association
3-02 SUB | 169 HUB
780-492-0339

International Student Services
142 Telus Centre
780-492-2692

Peer Support Centre
2-707 SUB
780-492-4357

University Health Centre
2-200 SUB
780-492-2612

Suicide Prevention Framework (PDF)

University of Alberta Suicide Prevention Framework PDF image

View the Framework (pdf)

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