Owensboro High School Students Trained in QPR Suicide Prevention

RiverValley Behavioral Health has launched a partnership with Owensboro High School (OHS) to implement “QPR” training, aimed at enhancing mental health crisis response among students. The acronym “QPR” stands for “Question, Persuade, Refer,” and this program will be offered to approximately 300 freshmen from February 17 to February 20, 2026.

OHS Principal Jennifer Luttrell has collaborated with RiverValley Behavioral Health officials to address the increasing need for mental health awareness among students. This initiative seeks to equip young individuals with essential skills to recognize signs of suicidal behavior and take appropriate action. Luttrell stated, “This training equips our students with an evidence-based strategy to manage their mental health, recognize signs of suicide, and take action that could save lives.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among teenagers in the United States. In Kentucky specifically, a notable percentage of high school students report experiencing persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. The QPR training aims to combat this alarming trend by teaching students how to identify warning signs, engage in supportive conversations, and connect peers with trusted adults and mental health resources.

The structure of the training mirrors the principles of CPR, which prepares individuals to respond to medical emergencies. Over the course of four days, 12 training sessions will be conducted by a team of seven trainers from RiverValley Behavioral Health. This collaborative effort ensures that all participating students receive comprehensive instruction in crisis intervention techniques.

Looking ahead, RiverValley Behavioral Health and OHS plan to expand their partnership by offering additional training sessions for seniors in April 2026. This ongoing collaboration underlines the commitment to fostering a supportive environment for mental health within the school community.

By focusing on mental health education and reducing stigma, this initiative represents a significant step toward empowering students to respond effectively in times of crisis. The hope is that through QPR training, the Red Devils will develop the confidence and skills necessary to support one another and contribute positively to their school environment.