Suicide Prevention/Training

At-Risk Warning Signs

  • Thoughts of killing oneself or others
  • Previous suicide attempt/s
  • Has a definite and detailed plan
  • Access to means (i.e., pills, firearms, sharp instruments)
  • Lack of protective factors/meaningful reasons for living
  • Has a history of impulsivity and/or poor self-control
  • Is under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Was recently discharged from a psychiatric hospital
  • Suicide note written and/or given away personal belongings
  • Feelings of despair or hopelessness
  • Psychotic symptoms
  • Family history of suicide/exposure to suicide in social environment
  • History of trauma

Interacting with Someone Who Is Feeling Suicidal

  • Be direct and ask clear quesitons (i.e., “have you been thinking about ending your life?”)
  • Approach in non-judgmental ways so people feel more comfortable sharing their struggles.
  • Empathize with the person and their desire to reduce their pain. Also let them know that there is help and hope out there.
  • Obtain the person’s location and emergency contact information.
  • For additional tips, please review MCC's Crisis Response Guide.

Question, Persuade & Refer (QPR)

The Office of Mental Health (OMH) is offering free Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) training. This is a one-hour online training that educates participants on identifying the signs of a suicidal crisis and how to question, persuade, and refer someone to help. During this on-demand training, attendees will learn the following:

  • Warning signs of suicide and suicide prevention 
  • How to ask someone if they are thinking about suicide
  • How to listen and refer someone for help

To access this free training please visit the QPR Institute's Gatekeeper Training website. Use the organizational code: SPCNY.

SUNY Suicide Prevention Training Module

As part of SUNY’s continued commitment to promoting campus well-being, SUNY has provided a systemwide online Suicide Prevention Training Module. This 30-minute training can help equip faculty, staff, and students with tools to recognize warning signs, respond with care, ask questions, and connect individuals to support. The training can be accessed on YouTube or on the SUNY Mental Health website.