[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Cooper_Jackiw.jpg” caption=”Nathan Cooper, psychologist, and Christine Jackiw, program co-ordinator, disability specialist at the CSD have recently completed a 10-hour self-study course in QPR, a suicide prevention program. Photo by Susan Bubak.”]Question. Persuade. Refer. These three steps can help prevent someone from committing suicide.

Staff members at the Centre for Student Development have recently completed a 10-hour self-study course in QPR, a suicide prevention program that will also be offered to those who work with students on a regular basis, such as academic advisors and peer helpers.

The first step in QPR, question, involves asking someone who is contemplating suicide if he is thinking of harming or killing himself. Contrary to popular belief, asking these types of questions does not increase a person's risk of committing suicide. Instead, most people who are thinking about suicide want to talk about it.

The second step in QPR, persuade, involves listening to someone's problems and asking him to seek help. Listening is an important step in suicide prevention, says psychologist Nathan Cooper of the CSD.

“People who are suicidal tend to express their thoughts to those who are closest to them,” he says.

Those with suicidal intentions may say things like, “I want it all to end,” or, “I wish I were dead.” They may withdraw from friends and family, give away their possessions or experience a radical shift in their behaviour or personality.

When someone has agreed to get help, the next step is to refer him to the appropriate resources. The CSD offers crisis appointments with personal counsellors within 24 hours. Students may also be referred to the Campus Health Centre, hospital or community services.

University life can be stressful for students, says Christine Jackiw, program co-ordinator, disability specialist at the CSD.

“It's a difficult transition time,” she says. “Students are away from their regular support systems. There may be mental health issues pre-existent or exacerbated by moving to a new town.” Students also have to contend with academic, financial, social and interpersonal issues.

Anyone can prevent suicide, regardless of their academic background.

“If you come across an accident on the highway, you might not be a surgeon, but there are things you can do to preserve life until help arrives,” says Jackiw.

Training sessions for QPR are available to students, staff and faculty on Oct. 26, Nov. 26 and Dec. 11 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Gilmour Hall, Council Chambers. Please click here to register. Space is limited to 30 participants per session.