DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — About two dozen residents attended a free QPR suicide-prevention training Tuesday afternoon, where instructors stressed early intervention, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and practical steps anyone can use to help someone in crisis.
Organizers said the session was provided at no cost through the Alabama Suicide Prevention & Resource Coalition, with support from the Addiction Prevention Coalition and the Southern Alabama Area Health Education Center. Participants were offered two hours of continuing-education credit.
Trainers outlined the QPR model—Question, Persuade, Refer—and encouraged attendees to ask direct, nonjudgmental questions when they notice warning signs. They also highlighted 988 and 211 as 24/7 access points for crisis support and local resources.
Speakers shared national and state figures to underscore the need for community training, noting roughly 49,000 suicide deaths annually in the U.S. and that Alabama’s rate has remained above the national average for decades. They added that firearms are the most lethal method, accounting for an estimated 70% of suicide deaths in Alabama and more than 80% among veterans, and urged safe storage and gun-lock use.
The training addressed youth and adult risk factors, stigma, and language, urging families, coworkers, and neighbors to listen, reduce shame, and help connect people to care. Attendees were encouraged to follow up after difficult conversations and to build a simple safety plan that includes professional help.
For support, call or text 988 any time. For local connections to services, dial 211. Anyone, including employers or schools interested in hosting a free QPR training session is urged to reach out to ASPARC
