Lexington, Kentucky, November 12, 2025
The University of Kentucky has partnered with UK HealthCare to provide free online suicide prevention training known as QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) for all residents of Kentucky. This initiative aims to equip individuals with the skills to identify warning signs of suicidal thoughts, offer assistance to those in crisis, and connect them with professional help. Given the alarming suicide rates among young people in the state, this program is a vital step towards improving mental health awareness and intervention.
Lexington, Kentucky – University of Kentucky Launches Free Suicide Prevention Training
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 11, 2025) – The University of Kentucky (UK) has teamed up with UK HealthCare to offer free, online suicide prevention training to all Kentuckians. This program, known as QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), is designed to help individuals identify warning signs of suicidal thoughts, assist those in crisis, and connect them with professional help. This initiative responds to the concerning suicide rates among young people in Kentucky.
QPR Training Details
QPR is a nationally recognized training program that teaches participants how to:
- Question: Recognize the signs of suicidal thoughts and ask the right questions.
- Persuade: Encourage the person to seek professional help.
- Refer: Connect the individual to appropriate resources and support systems.
The training is accessible online at UKHealthCare.com/QPR and takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, free of charge for all residents of Kentucky.
Background on Suicide Rates in Kentucky
Suicide remains the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10 to 34 in Kentucky. The state has one of the highest suicide rates in the country, significantly impacting young people. Programs like QPR are part of broader efforts to reduce suicide rates through community education and intervention.
About the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare
The University of Kentucky is the primary educational institution in the state, focused on enhancing the Commonwealth through education, research, and healthcare advancements. UK HealthCare serves as the clinical arm of the university, offering comprehensive medical services and innovative research aimed at improving health outcomes across Kentucky.
Additional Resources
For further information on suicide prevention and available resources, individuals can visit the Kentucky Department of Education’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is QPR training?
- QPR stands for Question, Persuade, Refer. It is a suicide prevention training program that teaches individuals how to recognize warning signs, engage those in crisis, and connect them to appropriate help.
- Who can access the QPR training?
- The QPR training is available online and free of charge to all residents of Kentucky.
- How long does the QPR training take?
- The training takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.
- Where can I access the QPR training?
- The training is available online at UKHealthCare.com/QPR.
- What are the suicide rates among young people in Kentucky?
- Suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10 to 34 in Kentucky, with the state having one of the highest suicide rates in the nation.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) |
| Duration | Approximately 30 minutes |
| Cost | Free |
| Availability | Online at UKHealthCare.com/QPR |
| Target Audience | All residents of Kentucky |
| Purpose | To equip individuals with skills to recognize warning signs, engage those in crisis, and connect them to appropriate help |
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