SafeTALK is a free, 3-hour training to help people understand how to be aware of someone  having suicidal thoughts, and how to connect them with the resources they need, hospital officials said.

The training will be held at the new Henry Mayo Fitness and Health center on Town Center Drive, with only two more sessions remaining before the end of the year.

“It’s sort of like CPR, but for mental health,” is how Henry Mayo Medical Social Worker Katie Cianci characterized the event.

The Saturday, Dec. 3, session is scheduled to run from 9 a.m. to noon, with one final training on Dec. 7 that is scheduled for 6 – 9 p.m.

“I think there is a misconception suicide only affects high-risk groups,” said Cianci, “while suicide is high risk, it really affects everyone.”

safeTALK hopes to help people recognize when others are having thoughts of suicide, then how to listen to what their needs are and most importantly how to help them.

Participants will be able to see examples of these tools being used in the real world, before getting the opportunity to practice utilizing their new skills.

“By the time they leave the training, they will know how to identify people at risk, and ask them the right questions to get them to respond,” said Cianci, “move beyond common tendencies to miss, dismiss, or avoid suicide.”

Attendance is free and open to anyone over the age of 15, seating is limited however so they ask people register two days before.

You can find more information on how to register on their website.

Anyone seeking information about mental health resources available in the Santa Clarita Valley can click here for a list of resources. There are 24-hour phone numbers available. In the event of an emergency, 911 should always be the first call.

Those looking to speak with someone can call:

• 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
• 1-800-854-7771 for the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health
• 1-800-784-2433 for the Treatment Advocacy Center
• 661-259-9439 for the SCV Child & Family Center