QPR training, a nationally recognized suicide prevention program, is now available to all students, faculty and staff at Washington University in St. Louis.
Kirk Dougher, associate vice chancellor for student support and wellness, and Arie Baker, director of health promotion and wellness at Habif Health and Wellness Center, liken QPR to CPR — an emergency response that saves lives. QPR stands for Question, Persuade and Refer — the key steps in recognizing and responding to signs of suicidal thinking or behavior.
“We would like the entire campus to engage in this process so they have the tools for when — not if — they encounter someone in crisis,” Dougher said. “Student Affairs alone cannot solve the student mental health crisis. WashU, on the other hand, has a chance.”
Kognito, another evidence-based suicide prevention program, also remains available to faculty, staff, and students. Kognito uses animated simulations to help users lead effective discussions with struggling students. Access both programs at Mental Health Services.