At BeWellATL, an initiative of JF&CS Atlanta, we believe that talking openly about mental health is an essential part of caring for young people. That's why we offer QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Suicide Prevention Training. The training teaches parents, professionals, and other trusted adults how to recognize warning signs, ask direct questions about suicide, and connect someone who may be struggling with help.
Asking about suicide may feel uncomfortable, but an open, compassionate conversation can be an important first step toward support. Knowing what to look for and how to start a conversation can help adults feel more confident and prepared to support a teen who may be struggling.
Start the Conversation Early
When children and teens learn that it's okay to talk about difficult emotions and ask for help, they have more opportunities to build healthy coping skills and trust the adults around them.
Regular check-ins can help children and teens feel comfortable talking about what they're experiencing. Talking regularly about stress, anxiety, loneliness, and other challenges can make conversations about more serious concerns feel less intimidating if they do arise.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask Directly
One of the key messages of QPR is that asking directly about suicide does not put the idea into someone's head. In fact, asking directly can open the door to an honest conversation and help someone who is struggling feel seen and supported.
If you're concerned about a teen, you can ask plainly: "Are you thinking about killing yourself?"
You don't need to have perfect words or be a mental health professional. QPR teaches participants how to Question someone about suicide, Persuade them to accept help, and Refer them to appropriate resources and support.
A Message of Hope
BeWellATL also brings personal stories and lived experiences into conversations about suicide prevention. Rabbi Shalom Hammer knows the devastating impact of suicide firsthand. After his daughter, Gila, died by suicide, he founded Gila's Way in her honor and dedicated himself to educating others about mental health and suicide prevention.
During a BeWellATL Workshop, Rabbi Hammer shared a powerful message:
"The majority of people who die from suicide do not want to die. And that means that if we can give them a glimpse of light, a shimmer of hope, some reason to continue, we have the potential to save lives."
Suicide Prevention Awareness with Rabbi Hammer of Gila’s Way
His message is a reminder that suicide prevention is not only about responding to a crisis. It's also about recognizing when someone may be struggling, starting a conversation, and helping them see that support, connection, and hope are possible.
Learn the Skills to Help
BeWellATL equips parents and other trusted adults with practical tools to recognize warning signs, start difficult conversations, and connect young people with support. Through QPR Suicide Prevention Training, community members can build the knowledge and skills to feel more prepared to help.
Interested in bringing QPR training or other BeWellATL suicide prevention programming to your school or community? Contact us at bewellatl@jfcsatl.org.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health or suicide crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.