QPR stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer. It is a training program designed to help individuals recognize the signs of someone in a suicidal crisis and provide them with immediate assistance and referral to professional help. QPR training aims to equip people with the skills and confidence to intervene and potentially save a life.
Here's a breakdown of what each component of QPR involves:
Question
The first step is to ask someone directly if they are thinking about suicide. This shows that you are willing to listen and allows the person to open up about their feelings.
Persuade
If the person confirms they are considering suicide, it's essential to persuade them to seek help and let them know that their feelings are taken seriously. Encourage them to reach out to a mental health professional, a helpline, or a trusted person in their life who can provide support.
Refer
Assist the person in finding appropriate help by providing them with information about available resources and making connections to mental health professionals, helplines, or support services. It's important to follow through and ensure that they receive the help they need.