Advanced Certificate in Preventing Self-Harm among Students

About this Podcast

HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today we're talking about an important topic in education: preventing self-harm among students. I'm delighted to have Dr. Jane Smith with us, an experienced counselor who has taught the Advanced Certificate in Preventing Self-Harm among Students. Dr. Smith, can you tell us what inspired you to create this course? GUEST: Absolutely, I've seen far too many students struggling with self-harm, and I wanted to equip educators and mental health professionals with the skills to help. HOST: That's commendable. What are some common warning signs that educators should be aware of? GUEST: Look for unexplained injuries, changes in behavior, or withdrawal from social activities. These could indicate a student is at risk. HOST: Once warning signs are identified, what intervention strategies do you recommend? GUEST: It's crucial to approach the student with empathy, create a safe space for them to express their feelings, and connect them with professional help. HOST: How does this course address suicide prevention specifically? GUEST: We cover best practices for suicide prevention, including creating a safer school environment and promoting help-seeking behavior. HOST: That's vital information. What challenges have you faced while teaching this subject? GUEST: The stigma around self-harm and mental health can make it difficult for educators to approach the topic, but this course helps to equip them with the right tools and language. HOST: Where do you see the future of self-harm prevention in education? GUEST: I believe we'll see more schools adopting trauma-informed care and integrating mental health education into their curriculums. HOST: Dr. Smith, thank you for sharing your insights and for the valuable work you're doing through this course. It's clear that it can make a significant difference in the lives of many students. GUEST: Thank you for having me. It's a pleasure to share this important information.