Did you know there's a simple, one-hour course that can teach you how to help someone in a mental health crisis—just like CPR does for medical emergencies? It’s called QPR Suicide Prevention training, and it’s available online and here in Spokane through the Spokane County Medical Reserve Corps.

QPR stands for “Question, Persuade, and Refer.” It’s a nationally recognized, research-based program that was actually created in Spokane by Dr. Paul Quinnett. The idea is simple: just like CPR can keep someone alive until medical help arrives, QPR gives you the tools to recognize the signs of a suicide crisis and connect someone to the help they need. It’s designed for everyone (no background in healthcare required) and it only takes about an hour to learn.

Dr. Pamela Kohlmeier is one of the volunteer instructors in Spokane. “When people end up depressed, they end up in this dark tunnel where they think suicide is the only option,” explained Kohlmeier. “And it is not. But we have to recognize who is in that tunnel and help them access help.”

If you’re interested in learning more about training for yourself or your organization, reach out to the Spokane County MRC at 509.324.2229, or mrc@srhd.org. The training is completely free, and it could help save a life.