Loudoun County is offering a series of free mental health education and substance abuse prevention training programs in March 2025.
These sessions aim to equip residents with knowledge and resources to address mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and opioid overdoses. All trainings are free, but registration is required for most programs.
Understanding Childhood Trauma
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) training raises awareness about the long-term impact of childhood trauma, linking it to chronic health conditions, mental illness, and substance abuse in adulthood. The program emphasizes how preventing ACEs can improve community well-being.
- Format: Virtual session (one-hour presentation followed by Q&A)
- Dates:
- March 10, 2025 | 12:00 – 1:30 p.m.
- March 24, 2025 | 12:00 – 1:30 p.m.
- Registration: loudoun.gov/ChildhoodAdversityTraining
Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid training teaches participants how to identify and assist individuals experiencing mental health or substance use crises.
The program offers two specialized versions: one for adults and one for individuals working with youth.
- Location: Loudoun County Department of Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Developmental Services, 21641 Ridgetop Circle, Suite 210, Sterling
- Dates:
- Adult Mental Health First Aid: March 19 & 20, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (both days required)
- Youth Mental Health First Aid: March 6 & 7, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (both days required)
- Registration: loudoun.gov/MHFirstAid
Free Overdose Reversal Training
Loudoun County provides free opioid overdose education through its REVIVE! training, which equips individuals with life-saving naloxone administration skills. Two versions of the program are available:
Rapid REVIVE!
- Format: Six-minute video training with free naloxone distribution (available anytime, no registration required)
- Access: English | Spanish
Virtual REVIVE!
- Format: One-hour online training session with naloxone distribution for participants
- Next session: March 13, 2025 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
- Registration: loudoun.gov/revive
Accessibility & Additional Information
Residents needing accommodations, including language assistance, may call 703-771-5155 or email the department with three business days’ notice.
For details on prevention and intervention services offered by Loudoun County’s Department of Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Developmental Services, visit loudoun.gov/MHSADSPrevention.
What’s Next for Loudoun County?
As Loudoun County continues to prioritize mental health education and substance abuse prevention, these initiatives reflect a growing commitment to community well-being.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of these free training opportunities, fostering a more informed and prepared community.
Sources: Loudoun County.
