Free suicide prevention training available through Parkview LaGrange in 2025When someone is in crisis, the people around them every day may have the best chance of noticing unusual changes in behavior or mood that could signal something is amiss – and acting quickly to prevent tragedy. Knowing what to do if you suspect a friend, loved one, co-worker or neighbor is considering suicide can empower you to help them get the support they need.That's why Parkview LaGrange Hospital's (PLH) team continues to offer free suicide prevention training to the community in 2025. Trainers teach the QPR (question, persuade, refer) technique, which equips individuals to begin the conversation with someone they think may be considering suicide. The goal of QPR classes is to save lives by providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training. Just as CPR training equips the learner to provide an emergency response to someone experiencing a physical health crisis, QPR equips them to act in a mental health crisis. Anyone 18 and older can learn QPR in a couple hours and become prepared to recognize the signs of someone at risk of suicide, offer hope and connect that person to expert, compassionate care. Learners may choose virtual or in-person classes held at PLH, 207 N. Townline Road, LaGrange. Dates for virtual classes in 2025 are: Tuesday, Mar. 18, 4:30 – 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 21, 12:30 – 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 15, 4 – 5:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 15, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12, 9 – 10:30 a.m. Dates for in-person classes at PLH are: Monday, April 14, 9 – 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 17, 2:30 – 4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 13, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2:30 – 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, 9:30 – 11 a.m. To participate in a virtual class, individuals will need to have access to a computer, tablet or smartphone with the free app Microsoft Teams. Due to the nature of the subject matter and the types of discussions that arise in the training, all participants must be able to use a video connection that enables them to see and hear each other, and the Microsoft Teams app works well for that purpose. Registration is required at least three days prior to the preferred training date, and capacity is limited. To register, visit parkview.com/preventsuicide. For additional information, or to inquire about training for small groups, call (260) 463-9270 or email leah.heaston@parkview.com. Youth classes are also available by request for children in grade 7 or higher. Other suicide prevention resources Do you know about steps anyone can take to connect with a mental health professional if experiencing a serious mental health crisis? Call the Parkview Behavioral Health HelpLine at 260-471-9440 or 800-284-8439 anytime 24/7 Experienced specialists can guide you to the appropriate level of care, or resources, for your situation. Call or text 9-8-8, the national suicide and crisis hotline Text “IN” to 741741 Call 2-1-1, option 3, to speak with a crisis specialist 24/7 Submitted: 03/12/25 Article By: Parkview LaGrange Hospital |