Coping and Supporting Training (CAST)

The Program

Coping and Support Training (CAST) is an evidence-based prevention program for middle and high-school-aged youth. It is a 12-lesson skills training program, embedded in a positive-peer group culture, designed for just 6-8 youth. CAST is used across the US and Canada, in schools, community centers, and a wide variety of other youth-oriented agencies.

Intended Audience

CAST is intended for potential school dropouts—racially/ethnically diverse, aged 14-19 years who also showed elevated suicide risk.

Implementation

CAST increases protective factors and decreases risk factors related to youth suicide risk. The 12 CAST sessions include group social support, developing and monitoring goals, building self-esteem, decision making, anger and depression management, school smarts, drug use control, preventing relapse, and recognizing progress. The program can be implemented in many different settings including online spaces, community centers, correctional facilities, health care facilities, mental health facilities, residential facilities, and schools.

Outcomes

The CAST group learns to gain competence and support each other in four skill areas:

Building self-esteem

Setting goals and monitoring

Decision making

Personal control such as managing moods, drug use, and school smarts

CAST has been shown to reduce suicide-risk behaviors, depression, hopelessness, anxiety, anger, and drug involvement; while increasing school bonding and social support resources (including family support).

Evidence

Quantitative evaluations have been conducted to identify the effectiveness of the CAST program. The program has been recognized as effective by many organizations including the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, the Colorado Department of Education, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Additional Resources