Mental Health First Aid is an 8-hour certification course that teaches how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. Mental Health First Aid takes the fear and hesitation out of starting conversations, improves understanding, reduces stigma and provides a five-step action plan that teaches people to safely and responsibly identify and address a potential mental illness or substance use disorder. There are two course options: Youth Mental Health First Aid and Adult Mental Health First Aid

Understanding ACEs is a 1-to 3-hour workshop that examines the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) study and how early adversity can impact an individual’s health and well-being. Participants will learn how toxic stress can damage our immune systems, lead to chronic health concerns like substance abuse and mental health challenges, and how it is related to violence and other social concerns. This training also explores tips and tools for supporting those who have experienced ACEs and how to build resilience.

Hidden in Plain Sight is a 1 – 1.5 hour interactive display/program that offers adults (including parents) insight into current trends in youth substance abuse, drug paraphernalia, and concealment of illicit drugs & alcohol. Facilitators educate community members on what to look out for in their children, how to talk to youth about tobacco, alcohol, drugs, other risky behaviors, and what to do if a problem is suspected.

REVIVE! is a one-hour opioid overdose and naloxone education program for the Commonwealth of Virginia. It provides training to professionals, stakeholders, and community members on how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose emergency using naloxone. Two doses of Narcan and a REVIVE! kits are offered at no cost to those that attend training.