Skills to help someone struggling with substance use and suicide concerns
Worried about someone facing substance use and suicide challenges? You're not alone. This self-paced online course offers practical support strategies you can start using today.
Are you worried about someone struggling with substance use and thoughts of suicide?
It can be overwhelming, especially if you're in a rural area with limited services. You’re not alone, and there’s hope. This short, online course offers simple strategies and resources to help you support someone and care for yourself immediately.
The launch of the course was marked by the release of a Never the Same podcast episode featuring Jack Stem and Kimberly Hribar, a father-daughter duo who shared their personal journey through addiction and recovery. The episode emphasized the importance of open communication, setting boundaries, and practising self-care when supporting loved ones.
What You'll Learn
This no-cost course shows you how to:
- Spot warning signs
- Start important but hard conversations
- Use a simple 3-step approach: Initiate, Ask, Respond
- Set boundaries and care for yourself
Created in partnership with UR Medicine Recovery Center for Excellence with funding form the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
Get Started Now
Complete this 20-30 minute, no-cost course anytime, developed by clinical experts and informed by lived experience in suicide and substance use.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can spend just a few minutes to find and learn what matters most to you or spend an hour digging deep on every topic and getting comfortable with the skills.
While the course is designed with family members in mind, it's also valuable for friends, colleagues, or anyone concerned about someone or wanting to know more about substance use and suicide.
No, this course is entirely free of charge, thanks to funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
Simply click the "Begin the Free Course" button on this page. The course is web-based, so you don't need to download anything.
Yes, you can access the course anytime that's convenient for you.
The course covers the following topics: what to know about suicide and substance use; how to talk about your concerns with your loved one; what you can do to help and how to take care of yourself.
No, we don't offer certificates. You'll gain valuable knowledge and skills to support your loved one.
Absolutely! We encourage you to share this no-cost resource with anyone who might benefit from it. You can share the link to this landing page.
SafeSide Prevention developed the course in collaboration with UR Medicine Recovery Center of Excellence on SUD Prevention, with input from clinical experts and individuals with lived experience.
Need Support Right Now?
If there is an emergency, someone is in immediate danger, or needs help, call emergency services at 911.
Other support avenues in the United States:
This HRSA RCORP RCOE program is supported by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) of the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) as part of an award of $3.33M in the current year with 0% financed with non-governmental sources.
The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by HRSA, HHS or the US Government.