QPR: Question, Persuade, and Refer

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QPR is a simple, evidence-based strategy that anyone can learn to help save a life. Much like CPR or the Heimlich Maneuver helps in physical emergencies, QPR enables people to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis, ask the right questions, offer hope, and refer someone to help. SOOAR offers this Gatekeeper training in as little as one hour.

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Gatekeeper Role

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A gatekeeper is someone who is in a position to notice when someone may be contemplating suicide. Gatekeepers can include parents, friends, neighbors, teachers, ministers, doctors, nurses, supervisors, first responders, caseworkers, and others who are in contact with people in their communities.

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As a QPR-trained Gatekeeper, you will learn to:

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• Recognize warning signs of suicide

• Ask someone directly about suicidal thoughts

• Offer hope and support

• Refer them to appropriate help or resources

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How QPR Works (Like CPR)

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Both QPR and CPR are part of what we call a Chain of Survival:

• Early recognition of warning signs

• Early intervention and referral to help (such as calling 988, talking to mental health professionals)

• Timely follow-up care, which can prevent crisis escalation, hospitalization, or loss of life

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Who Should Be Trained

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We believe that every person can make a difference. Because suicides often occur in homes, at least one person in every household should be aware of how to respond. Training as a Gatekeeper empowers parents, teachers, peers, and friends alike to act when needed.

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