Talk Saves Lives Train the Trainer Course

Talk Saves Lives is the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s (AFSP) flagship education program designed to provide communities with a clear understanding of suicide, including the most up-to-date research, risk factors, and warning signs. This evidence-informed, 45–60-minute presentation also empowers individuals with prevention strategies and practical guidance on how to talk about suicide and connect someone to appropriate help. It’s an accessible, introductory training that opens the door to deeper engagement and awareness around suicide prevention.

Key Content Areas Covered:

• The scope of the suicide problem in the U.S.
• What the research tells us about suicide
• Risk factors and warning signs
• How to have a conversation about mental health
• Strategies for prevention and how to seek help

Becoming a Talk Saves Lives Trainer

Talk Saves Lives is led by trained volunteer presenters who are passionate about preventing suicide in their communities. To become a trainer, individuals should have the following:

Recommended Skills and Qualities:

• Comfort with Public Speaking: Trainers must be confident, clear, and engaging when presenting to diverse audiences (schools, workplaces, faith groups, etc.).
• Empathy and Sensitivity: Presenters often speak about emotionally heavy topics; the ability to show compassion and remain grounded is essential.
• Basic Understanding of Suicide Prevention: While AFSP provides comprehensive training and presentation materials, trainers benefit from foundational knowledge of mental health concepts and suicide risk.
• Reliability and Professionalism: Trainers serve as community-facing representatives of AFSP and must be dependable and respectful of all audiences.
• Willingness to Follow Evidence-Based Messaging: Trainers must present the program as written, avoiding personal anecdotes unless approved, and ensuring fidelity to the content.
• Commitment to Safe Messaging: Understanding and adhering to AFSP’s guidelines around language and media portrayals of suicide is a critical aspect of being a trusted trainer.

No formal mental health or clinical background is required to become a Talk Saves Lives presenter—just a willingness to learn, engage, and be a voice for prevention.