First Responder QPR Instructor Course – Self Study

The Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation (OSPF) funds evidence-based Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) Instructor training for Ohio first responder agencies. It is prudent to provide all first responders with the education and training necessary to become aware of the warning signs, risk factors, and situations that may cause someone to have suicidal thoughts.

The skills and techniques used in suicide prevention can apply to the public, coworkers, family, and friends. Suicide and suicidal ideation can affect anyone regardless of gender, age, race, rank, etc. Everyone plays a role in suicide prevention. You do not have to be a mental health professional to save a life. Most of the time, it is not a mental health professional that a suicidal person expresses their thoughts and feelings to first—it is a friend, colleague, or family member. This project aims to equip key first responder personnel with the confidence and competence needed to initiate conversations about suicide with colleagues, instill hope, and refer at-risk colleagues to appropriate mental and behavioral health resources.

Self-Study Certification as a QPR Gatekeeper Instructor requires 100% completion of the online course as well as successful completion of two forms included in the course:

1. QPR Instructor Licensing Agreement
2. QPR Instructor Training Course Evaluation

The QPR Institute (Julie Scott) and the grant Program Manager (Jason Hughes) will track each participant’s progress. This course does not serve as the two hours of prerequisite training for those registered for the virtual course.

Online training: You will receive an email from Julie Scott (QPR Institute). She will create a profile for you, where you will access your training and certificate after completing the requirements. You may begin your training as soon as you gain access.

QPR Materials: You will receive your QPR materials in the mail. You do not need them to start the course; these materials are for you to facilitate training after you become certified.

Limitations: Your certification only allows you to present community Gatekeeper training. Your QPR Instructor certification does not include the right to train others to become Gatekeeper Instructors. Only a master trainer can certify other QPR Instructors.

Attendees must be one of the following categories:

1. Law Enforcement
2. Firefighter
3. EMS
4. Dispatcher

Attendees must be a resident of Ohio.

This FREE educational opportunity is brought to you by generous contributions from the Ohio Department of Public Safety.

Questions/General Information:
Jason Hughes
Program Manager | Veteran Liaison
Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation
jason.hughes@ohiospf.org