Area residents have new opportunities to build critical mental health and suicide-prevention skills through a series of educational trainings offered by the Gettysburg Hospital Foundation and Healthy Adams County. The organizations announced plans for multiple sessions across 2025 and 2026, beginning with a Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) training on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025.
The QPR training, scheduled from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., will take place in the Community Rooms B and C at WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital, 147 Gettys Street. The program is designed as an accessible introduction to mental health awareness and suicide-prevention strategies, offering participants practical tools to recognize warning signs, respond effectively in crisis situations and connect individuals with appropriate resources. The session lasts approximately 4.5 hours and is recommended for anyone seeking a foundational understanding of mental health concerns, from community members and caregivers to educators, volunteers and workplace leaders.
Local service providers continue to see rising demand for mental health support, especially following years of pandemic-related strain, economic pressures and increased awareness of suicide risk across all age groups.
The programs are part of a long-standing partnership between the two organizations, which collaborate frequently on community health initiatives, wellness education and access to care. QPR training is widely used across the country and is recognized for its straightforward, actionable approach—much like CPR in cardiac emergencies—where early intervention can save lives.
Registration is open and required for the December session. Interested participants can sign up using the following link: https://forms.office.com/r/QWk131P6KQ
Additional trainings for 2026 will be announced in the coming months, with organizers emphasizing their goal of reaching residents throughout the county, offering sessions at accessible locations, and ensuring that cost is not a barrier to participation.
Source: Healthy Adams County