Bluefield College will host a mental health symposium on Thursday, October 4 from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. The symposium will feature regional substance abuse prevention and recovery specialists who will provide presentations, training opportunities, and workshops. Professionals in human services, law enforcement, education, health care, mental health, and faith group leaders are invited to attend.
The symposium will feature a track in Mental Health First Aid, which will teach the participants how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance disorders in adults or youth. Attendees will gain the skills needed to reach out and provide initial support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance abuse problem and help connect them to appropriate care. A fee of $17 will be collected at the door for this track.
REVIVE! training will also be offered, which will teach the participant how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose emergency with the administration of naloxone (Narcan®).
Presentations include: Overview of the Opioid Crisis in Appalachia, Regional Resources (ASAC and the WarmLine), Energizing Appalachian Communities using the Strategic Prevention Framework, and Drug Trends and Awareness.
Workshops include: Handle With Care (for law enforcement and early childhood workers), suicideTALK, ACEs and You, Celebrate Recovery, Drug Court, Prescription Monitoring Program, and Faith-Based Drug Monitoring Program.
Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided. All attendees are encouraged to pre-register but may register at the door.
For more information and to register, go to the www.bluefield.edu/symposium or contact Bonny Dillon at [email protected]