National Health Outreach and Engagement Conference 2024

Catlone, C, and Amor-Zitzelberger, J
Suicide is a rising national health crisis, ranking among the leading causes of death in the U.S.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a 5% surge in suicide deaths in
2021, with an initial review of data indicating a further 2.6% increase to 49,449 deaths in
2022._ In that same year, 2022, Pennsylvania recorded a suicide rate of 1,694 deaths._
SAMHSA's 2022 report highlights the imperative for prevention education, citing 13.2 million
adults contemplating suicide, 3.8 million planning, and 1.6 million attempts._ The 2021-2022
Pennsylvania statewide youth survey reveals that 19% of high school students seriously
considered suicide, with 11% attempts.

Recognizing the severity of the situation, the CDC has supported prevention strategies
grounded in the belief that suicide is preventable. _ One approach adopted by Penn State
Extension involves utilizing the evidence-based prevention program, Question, Persuade, Refer
(QPR), designed to help communities identify and support at-risk individuals. The QPR
curriculum, created by the QPR Institute, holds a distinguished place in the National Registry of
Evidence-based Practices and Policies (NREPP), underscoring its credibility and effectiveness.
_ Its core objectives include:
• Equipping participants to recognize signs of suicide risk
• Intervening effectively through persuasion
• Gaining proficiency in referring individuals to appropriate resources
An important training component involves role-playing exercises at the workshop's conclusion,
facilitating the practical application of acquired skills and a comprehensive review of course
materials.

Penn State Extension has established meaningful partnerships with various agencies across
Pennsylvania and neighboring states to enhance the program’s influence. These partnerships
include collaborations with local County Suicide Prevention task forces, school districts, senior
centers, and affiliations at West Virginia University and West Virginia State University
Extension programs. Our Extension educators are assisting West Virginia State University
Extension in acquiring the knowledge and skills to implement the QPR training effectively
among their key stakeholders.

Since November 2022, 389 individuals have successfully completed the QPR training. The
program is evaluated by assessing participants' pre- and post-knowledge, confidence levels,
attitudes, and intention to apply the behavioral skills acquired during the course. Results from
175 evaluations during the initial year of QPR programming highlight substantial positive
outcomes:
• 77.1% of participants gained increased knowledge of suicide prevention facts.
• 82.3% reported an enhanced understanding of initiating conversations about suicide.
• 79.2% expressed heightened confidence in aiding individuals at risk.
Remarkably, 92.4% of participants reported feeling more competent in assisting someone who
is suicidal, with 95.1% expressing a solid intent to utilize the QPR Booklet when seeking help
for at-risk individuals.

This presentation encourages attendees to explore implementing the QPR curriculum in their
state. Positioned as an effective evidence-based program, QPR emerges as a fundamental tool in
community settings, offering a means to reduce suicides. By disseminating knowledge,
fostering confidence, and instilling practical skills, Penn State Extension hopes to contribute
meaningfully to the collective endeavor of preventing suicide and promoting mental well-being
in our communities.