Submitted by the Town of Bedford
The Bedford Board of Health, Bedford Youth and Family Services and the School Wellness Committee are sponsoring a free suicide prevention training for the Bedford community on Wednesday, May 22, 2019, from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm at the Bedford Free Public Library, First Floor Meeting Room at 7 Mudge Way.
The evening will include investigating myths surrounding suicide, exploring the signs of suicide, and learning how to help a person in distress. The May 22nd QPR training is limited to 50 participants (adults only, please) so pre-registration is required. To reserve a space please call the Bedford Board of Health at 781-275-6507 or [email protected].
Click this link to download/print a PDF of the event poster and the program details
About the Program
Did you know that there are over 550 completed suicides each year in Massachusetts alone? Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) is modeled after the Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) medical intervention. This training is intended to help you better understand the complex issue of suicide and provide you with the tools to respond should you interact with those with mental health concerns.
QPR is based upon the following concepts:
- The notion that those who most need help in a suicidal crisis are the least likely to ask for it.
- The person most likely to prevent a person dying by suicide is someone they already know.
- Prior to making a suicide attempt, a person typically sends warning signs of his or her distress and suicidal intent to those nearby.
- When we solve the problems that people have that make them want to attempt or complete a suicide, the reasons for suicide disappear.
Jon Mattleman, a mental health counselor and trainer with 30 years of experience, will facilitate the training. Jon is a Certified QPR Trainer and has worked with hundreds of parents, professionals, and youth to help prevent tragedies in their communities. During this training, participants will learn the most up-to-date information on depression and suicide and how to effectively identify and support loved ones who may be suffering. Finally, this workshop is anything but depressing – it is infused with energy and an appropriate level of humor, and consistently leaves participants feeling enlightened and empowered.
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