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FULLERTON — In Nebraska, suicide is the second leading cause of death in 10- to 24-year-olds. Most people can think of someone in their lives who has been personally affected by a loved one’s suicide.
As prevalent as suicide has become, there is still a significant stigma surrounding it. While mental health issues, especially in young people, seem to be on the rise, many organizations have made it their mission to spread awareness, education, and prevention techniques.
The nationally recognized QPR Institute will be giving a suicide prevention training on Monday at the Fullerton Public Library. Just as people learn to do CPR or the Heimlich maneuver in order to save thousands of lives each year, a person can learn to recognize the signs of a suicide crisis and how to help.
The QPR Institute teaches a specific technique known as Question, Persuade and Refer. These three simple steps can help save lives. They also teach how to recognize the signs of a potential suicide crisis.
Former Senator Annette Dubas coordinated the event. Following her time as a senator, she accepted a position as the Executive Director for the Nebraska Association of Behavioral Health Organizations. The organization focuses primarily on advocacy and promoting legislation to improve behavioral health support.
“The goal of this training is to break down the myths and stigma surrounding suicide,” she said. “And to give parents or anyone the tools and information they need on how to approach someone who is struggling.”
The class is ideal for parents, teachers, clergy, or anyone who works with youth. According to the QPR Institute, ideally at least one person per family would receive this training.
“This is very community focused,” Dubas said. “It is intended for those of us who live, work and play in our communities to have a better understanding of suicide and knock down those stigmas.”
Nance County is one of many counties that does not have access to mental health professionals. Those who are struggling must travel, sometimes hours, to find mental health practitioners. Which is why it is so vital that suicide prevention training be brought to the community.
The training will be given at the Fullerton Public Library at 6:30 p.m. on Monday. Tommy Newcombe, the Region 4 Behavioral Health Authority Prevention Coordinator, will be teaching the class using the QPR training model. There are 30 seats available for the class. Please call Fullerton Public Library to reserve a seat.
For more information see www.qprinstitute.com.