At JF&CS, supporting mental health goes beyond providing clinical services; we also equip the community (professionals, volunteers, parents, and even young adults (those 18+)) with tools to recognize and respond when someone may be in crisis. JF&CS is proud to offer QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Suicide Prevention Training, an evidence-based program that teaches participants how to recognize warning signs and take action to prevent a tragedy. Training is organized by BeWellATL.org, a program of JF&CS that is dedicated to the wellbeing of young people.
Mike Beldie, Chief Operating Officer, shared, “This is a relatively short training that can absolutely save lives.”
Another agency executive who recently attended a training added, "this training is a valuable tool for anyone supporting our clients, colleagues, and community.”
During training sessions, participants practice asking direct questions and navigating difficult conversations.
One attendee reflected, “QPR was so helpful. I learned more than I knew before I walked in. I didn’t know I could ask direct questions (to a friend or loved one), and now I do. I also know now that follow-up is crucial.”
Participants highlighted how empowering the training felt. “I’m grateful I went to this because it feels like I was handed a deeply important set of tools needed to plant a seed of hope in the community,” one shared.
Another added, “QPR was so impactful in such a short amount of time, and it’s something that every parent, teen, and adult should learn to talk about. This is about hope, and it creates a path to more hope.”
Though the content subject is emotionally intense, the goal of the training is to feel empowered to know how to address tough situations. The BeWellATL team ensures participants have the support they need while attending a training session.
Looking ahead, JF&CS is committed to offering QPR training to the community as requested. By experiencing QPR firsthand, more people will be prepared to share these life-saving skills and foster wellbeing throughout Atlanta.
For more information, contact Jessica Sacks, Community Outreach Coordinator, at jsacks@jfcsatl.org.