Question, Persuade, and Refer - Gatekeeper Suicide Prevention Training

The mission of Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) is to save lives and reduce suicidal behaviors by providing evidence-based suicide prevention training. Knowing how to address this sensitive issue can empower individuals to reach out and help someone in need. Just like CPR and the Heimlich maneuver have saved thousands of lives each year, learning to recognize the warning signs of suicide and knowing the steps of QPR may save a life of a friend, coworker, family member, or neighbor.

Developed by the QPR Institute, this two-hour training is designed for all people, regardless of their background, who are concerned about helping others with mental health and substance use challenges. QPR is an emergency mental health intervention for persons at risk of suicide. Training participants will learn skills to identify and interrupt a crisis and direct someone to proper care.

In this workshop, you will learn to:

• Recognize the warning signs of suicidal thoughts and behaviors
• Ask direct or less direct questions about how someone is feeling
• Practice active listening
• Persuade someone to seek professional help
• Refer someone to appropriate help

Who should attend this workshop?

• Anyone wanting more information about helping those in suicidal crisis
• Social service agencies
• First responders
• Faith-based organizations

The Penn State Extension Family Well-Being team consists of educators from multiple disciplines who understand and support those struggling with mental health and substance use challenges.

Besides this webinar, our team also offers Mental Health First Aid, teaching the action steps for helping others in need. The webinar brings awareness to the importance of mental wellness and reducing the stigma associated with mental health and substance use challenges.

For more information on registration or scheduling an event for your organization, contact the Penn State Extension Family Well-Being team below.

Chi Catalone – cjb7092@psu.edu

Ginger Fenton – gdc3@psu.edu

Rozalia Horvath – ruh226@psu.edu

Sonya Nace – srr259@psu.edu

Cynthia Pollich - cep5@psu.edu

Christi Powell – cug137@psu.edu

Darlene Sansone – dxs74@psu.edu

Jill Varner – juv373@psu.edu

Jacqueline Zitzelberger – jla17@psu.edu