QPR

As part of the two day VOlAware event, we will conduct QPR, a training program aimed at suicide prevention. This program is open to everyone. The State of Tennessee and the University of Tennessee have adopted QPR for training in suicide prevention and education. QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) provides the life saving skills necessary to effectively and directly ask someone if they are suicidal, persuade them to get help and refer them to the appropriate professional.

Psychological autopsies of individual who committed suicide show that they did communicate, subtly or overtly, to people in their lives about their thoughts of suicide, but usually didn't seek mental health services. Due to the sensitive nature of the issue, people often are afraid to broach the topic for fear of saying the wrong thing.

QPR training takes 60minutes. Participants can expect to learn the warning signs for depression and suicidal ideation, how to ask someone if they are considering suicide and how and where to refer someone for help.

Role-playing situations are used to practice asking the tough questions about suicide. Pre-booked sessions for groups can be arranged by calling 974-2196 and asking for Dr. Marci Burroughs or Dr. Connie Briscoe.

Family, friends, teachers, clergy and colleagues are in prime positions to help a person in distress. All QPR participants are provided a card and a booklet that outline the information necessary for intervening with a suicidal person, including local referral options. This training is a valuable resource for anyone and may help to save a life.

Click here for information about upcoming QPR Trainings..