Poudre School District is offering a free suicide prevention training that will teach participants how to recognize someone at risk for suicide, intervention skills and referral resources in the community.

The QPR (Question, Persuade and Refer) method training, facilitated by PSD mental health professionals, is for parents interested in learning more about suicide prevention.  

The 1 1/2 hour training will teach participants the three-step QPR method. Participants will learn how to recognize and identify at least three warning signs of suicide and how to ask someone about their potential suicide intent. Participants will learn how to listen and will be taught skills to assist a person at risk of suicide.  In addition, participants will learn about myths and facts related to suicide and about suicide as a national and local public health concern.

There is no charge for the training, however pre-registration is required. Participants can preregister by calling Betty Englert Backlund, PSD Student Services, at 490-3264. Class size will be limited.

Upcoming QPR trainings (the same training is offered four times) include:
• 6:30 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 12, at the Fort Collins High School Media Center (must preregister by Feb. 8)
• 6:30 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 26, at the Blevins Middle School Media Center (must preregister by Feb. 22)
• 6:30 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, March 12, at the Fort Collins High School Media Center (must preregister by March 8)
• 6:30 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 16, at the Blevins Middle School Media Center (must preregister by April 12)