Thoughts of suicide and attempts are among the most marginalized human experiences. The experience itself is isolating. Many people with suicidal urges carry shame and have learned to keep silent about their feelings. Alt2Su is a Harm Reduction model that takes a different perspective than traditional Suicide Prevention.
ABOUT US
What is Alt2Su? How is it different than traditional forms of Suicide prevention? There is no referral or assessment process. There is no formal attendance taken at any group. No one is going to force you to go to the hospital for talking openly about suicidal experiences. At Alt2Su, we recognize the fear of forced hospitalization as a contributing factor to why some folks may not ever talk about these experiences. We recognize that if people do not have a supportive space to discuss suicidal thoughts or ideations, they become more likely to attempt. Our aim is not only to provide support but take the shame and stigma off of these experiences.
To learn more about some of our values, here is a pdf for the network charter. Alternatives to Suicide was developed by the Wildflower Alliance in Western Massachusetts, in 2008.
TRAINING
Alt2Su trainings are available on YouTube. If you are looking for additional information on training and/or other opportunities please visit Wildflower Alliance Trainings. For additional information on Alt2Su trainings and offerings, please contact us at connect@toivocenter.org.
An Overview of the “Alternatives to Suicide” Approach
N.A.P.S. Webinar #43 – The “Alternatives to Suicide” Approach
SUPPORT GROUPS
Here’s information on our current support groups.
Alternatives to Suicide Zoom Mondays
Every Monday from 3:30-5pm
Join the Zoom meeting with the following link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81747486898?pwd=CZzFMnjds9IOmD2owAMxe8fudHFlvo.1
Alternatives to Suicide Hartford
Every Wednesday from 5-6:30pm
At Toivo
1477 Park St, Suite 102, Hartford
For more information contact Toivo (connect@toivocenter.org)
RESOURCES
Other Alt2Su-inspired Groups can be found @:
NAMI Peer-to-Peer
Positive Directions
Rocking Recovery/RIPPLE