Life Saving Conversations

FROM EMILY ROSE JACOBSEN (IOTA CHI, MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY), DIRECTOR OF HARM REDUCTION, AND RACHEL HALEY (OMICRON, BAKER UNIVERSITY), ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF HARM REDUCTION  

Suicide prevention starts with a conversation. In honor of National Suicide Prevention Week, we’re spotlighting the impact of Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) Gatekeeper Training and the voices of those who are helping build safer, more supportive chapter experiences and campus communities.  

QUESTION, PERSUADE, REFER (QPR) GATEPKEEPER TRAINING 

QPR Gatekeeper Training is an evidence-based program created by the QPR Institute that equips individuals with the tools to recognize suicide warning signs and respond with care. Just as CPR helps save lives in medical emergencies, QPR empowers us to act proactively in mental health crises. QPR is just three simple steps, and participants in the training gain perspective on the reality of suicide and discover practical strategies as QPR Gatekeepers to help extend hope to those struggling.  

Led by a trained QPR-certified facilitator, participants engage in interactive group discussion and role play scenarios to practice their intervention skills. By learning how to identify suicidal thoughts, attitudes and behaviors, QPR Gatekeepers increase the opportunity for early detection and better outcomes with referral support for those in need. Over 6 million people worldwide have been trained as QPR Gatekeepers, and hundreds of thousands more are continuing to take this small step to make a life-saving difference. 

WHY QPR MATTERS 

Mental health challenges affect us all – whether directly or through someone we care about. Whether you're a sister, advisor, friend or loved one, chances are you'll encounter someone struggling. QPR Gatekeeper Training’s straightforward approach helps participants prevent suicide and feel prepared to support those in crisis. QPR is so much more than just a certification; it’s a commitment to care, connection and prevention for those who need help the most. When we choose to talk about suicide rather than avoid the word, we are breaking the stigma, reducing shame and opening a pathway toward healing. The more we speak it out loud, the more we remind others they are not alone.  

POSITIVE IMPACTS OF QPR  

Suicide prevention is most powerful when shared with others. Because QPR Gatekeeper Training is not reserved for mental health professionals, it’s a life-saving tool that benefits each of us. No matter your experiences, role or background, learning QPR can help expand your confidence and knowledge on how to respond to suicidal ideation the moment you recognize it.  

Chapter Advisor Jessica Lahey (Gamma Zeta, Kansas State University) shared what motivated her to become a QPR Gatekeeper: “With rising mental health challenges on many campuses, I am always searching for opportunities to better support our members in their experiences. For me, joining the QPR training was an obvious choice after our campus (Middle Tennessee State University) experienced a public suicide last year.” Her greatest takeaway from participating in the training was that “questioning someone about their intentions will not encourage them toward suicide. And asking a question can make all the difference.”  

INTERESTED IN QPR GATEKEEPER TRAINING?

Growing Alpha Chi Omega’s number of QPR Gatekeepers multiplies our impact. If you would like to schedule an in-person or virtual QPR training session for your chapter, executive board or advisory board members, contact collegiateexperience@alphachiomega.org to learn more and take the first step in building a culture of care and prevention. 

ASKING FOR HELP IS TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF. IF YOU OR A LOVED ONE IS EXPERIENCING A MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS, CONTACT THE 988 SUICIDE & CRISIS LIFELINE FOR FREE, 24/7, CONFIDENTIAL SUPPORT FROM ITS NATIONAL NETWORK OF TRAINED MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS CENTERS.