When someone is in crisis, those closest to them often have the best chance of noticing changes in behavior or mood that could indicate something is wrong. Acting quickly can be crucial in preventing tragedy. Understanding how to respond if you suspect a friend, loved one, co-worker, or neighbor may be considering suicide can empower you to help them find the support they need.
Parkview LaGrange Hospital (PLH) is committed to addressing this critical issue by offering free suicide prevention training throughout 2026. The hospital’s training program will equip participants with the QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) technique, a method designed to help initiate conversations with individuals who may be at risk for suicide. The objective of QPR classes is to save lives by providing innovative, practical, and proven strategies for suicide prevention. Much like CPR training prepares individuals to respond to physical health emergencies, QPR trains them to intervene in mental health crises.
Anyone aged 18 and older is welcome to participate in the QPR training, which can be completed in just a couple of hours. Participants will learn to recognize the signs of someone at risk of suicide, offer hope, and connect them to professional care.
Training sessions are available in both virtual and in-person formats at PLH, located at 207 N. Townline Road, LaGrange.
Virtual Training Dates for 2026:
• Monday, Jan. 19, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, Mar. 17, 4:30 – 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, May 27, 12:30 – 2 p.m.
• Tuesday, July 14, 4 – 5:30 p.m.
• Monday, Sept. 14, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, Nov. 11, 9 – 10:30 a.m.
In-Person Training Dates:
• Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2:30 – 4 p.m.
• Monday, April 13, 9 – 10:30 a.m.
• Tuesday, June 16, 2:30 – 4 p.m.
• Wednesday, Aug. 12, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
• Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2:30 – 4 p.m.
• Monday, Dec. 7, 9:30 – 11 a.m.
To join a virtual class, participants should have access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone equipped with the free Microsoft Teams app. Due to the sensitive nature of the topics discussed, a video connection is essential for meaningful engagement.
Registration and Contact Information:
Registration is required at least three days prior to the chosen training date, and space is limited. Interested individuals can register by visiting the suicide prevention page at parkview.com.
For more information or to inquire about small group training, call 260-463-9270 or email leah.heaston@parkview.com. Youth classes are also available by request for children in grade 7 or higher.
Additional Resources for Suicide Prevention:
If you or someone you know is experiencing a serious mental health crisis, several resources are available: Call the Parkview Behavioral Health Help-Line at 260-471-9440 or 800-284-8439, available 24/7. Contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 9-8-8. Text “IN” to 741741 for immediate support. Call 2-1-1, option 3, to speak with a crisis specialist at any time.
Taking action when it comes to suicide prevention can make a life-saving difference. With the right training and resources, individuals can learn how to help those in need effectively.
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