QPR Trainings Helpful In Suicide Prevention
Monday, September 23rd, 2019 -- 10:02 AM
We can all help prevent suicide. Every year mental health organizations and individuals across the U.S. and around the world raise awareness of suicide prevention during September, National Suicide Prevention Month.Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for the loss of more than 41,000 American lives each year"more than double the number lost to homicide. The Clark County Mental Health Task Force is now nearing the end of its fourth year of helping to educate the community about suicide prevention and mental health issues with the goal of reducing the stigma of mental illness. Mental health includes a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.
To help recognize the signs of a potential suicide, trained members of the Clark County mental Health Task Force have been sharing an educational program called QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) throughout the county. QPR trainings teach members of the public about the warning signs of a suicide crisis; expressions of hopelessness, depression, giving away prized possessions, talking about suicide, and securing lethal means. The program teaches people how to respond. Currently, close to 500 people in Clark County have received QPR training.
Suicide is not inevitable for anyone. By starting the conversation, providing support, and directing help to those who need it, we can prevent suicides and save lives. If you are interested in learning more about QPR or the work of the Clark County Mental Health Task Force, contact the Clark County Health Department, Clark County Community Services, or University of Wisconsin-Division of Extension-Clark County.
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.