Part A

SOS Pre-conversation Checklist

Instructions:

Low: Tick this box if the situation is assessed as low risk.

Medium: Tick this box if the situation carries some risk, and proceed with caution or seek advice.

High: Tick this box if the situation is high risk. Consider seeking assistance from a fellow SOS Altruist, colleague or management/ security.

Always proceed with caution.

The Environment

Is the environment private and free from distractions?

Low

Medium

High

Have steps been taken to create a calm and non-threatening atmosphere?

Low

Medium

High

Familiarity

Are you familiar with the individual's background, concerns, and current situation?

Low

Medium

High

Location

Is the location safe and comfortable for both you and the individual?

Low

Medium

High

Have you considered if the location supports an open and honest dialogue?

Low

Medium

High

Positioning

Are you seated or positioned in a way that is non-confrontational and promotes equality?

Low

Medium

High

Have you ensured that your body language is open and inviting?

Low

Medium

High

Confrontation

Have you prepared to avoid any confrontational language or tone?

Low

Medium

High

Are you ready to manage potential conflicts with empathy and understanding?

Low

Medium

High

Assumptions and Comments

Are you mindful of avoiding judgmental comments or phrases?

Low

Medium

High

Have you set aside any preconceived assumptions about the individual’s situation?

Low

Medium

High

Body Language

Is your body language congruent with a supportive and empathetic approach?

Low

Medium

High

Are you aware of the individual’s body language, and ready to respond appropriately?

Low

Medium

High

Dealing with The D.A.G.S.

Are you prepared to identify and address the compounding risk factors that D.A.G.S. present?

Low

Medium

High

Be aware of the signs and impacts of The D.A.G.S., such as impaired decision-making, financial stress, and potential for violent outbursts?

Low

Medium

High

Have you considered how D.A.G.S. may be affecting the individual’s cognitive and critical thinking abilities, and are you ready to approach the conversation with this understanding?

Low

Medium

High

Safety

Is there a plan in place if the conversation leads to immediate concerns about safety?

Low

Medium

High

Ensure you have the closest access to the door and maintain a safe distance, especially when dealing with individuals influenced by substances?

Low

Medium

High

Have you considered both physical and emotional safety for you and the individual?

Low

Medium

High

Introductions

Have you prepared a warm and clear introduction to set the tone for the conversation?

Low

Medium

High

Are you ready to establish rapport by introducing yourself, your role, and the purpose of the conversation?

Low

Medium

High

Questioning Techniques

Are you ready to use open-ended questions that encourage dialogue?

Low

Medium

High

Have you avoided preparing leading questions that might influence the individual’s responses?

Low

Medium

High

Be prepared to clarify and reflect on the individual's comments to show active listening and concern?

Low

Medium

High

Remember the Global Suicide Prevention Campaign to assist the conversation?

Low

Medium

High

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