Submitted by Faith Sprigg, HKYFS Positive Youth Development Coordinator
(September 4, 2024) — September is here and marks Suicide Prevention Month, a national movement to disseminate information about the warning signs of an emotional crisis, resources, and importantly, stories of hope and recovery. This national effort during the month of September is part of a continuous effort to destigmatize mental health challenges and provide tools that we can all use to protect those around us, our neighbors, and community members.
One effective tool is QPR. Question. Persuade. Refer. is an easy-to-follow suicide prevention framework which can be learned in only 60-90 minutes. Through QPR training, individuals will come away with knowledge of how to ask someone if they are experiencing suicidal thoughts and help them in getting support through appropriate referral resources. QPR offers hope through positive actions.
To learn QPR during Suicide Prevention month, Haddam-Killingworth Youth and Family Services is offering a free training on Wednesday, September 25, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at the Haddam Volunteer Fire Department at 439 Saybrook Road in Higganum. In addition to QPR, this training will include instruction on the life-saving use of Narcan (Naloxone), an antidote that can reverse opioid overdoses. Participants will learn how to recognize the symptoms of an overdose, how to properly administer Narcan, and also will gain a deeper understanding of the opioid crisis.
To register for this free QPR and Narcan training please check out our website at https://hkyfs.org/event/.
