Loudoun County announced on Apr. 17 that it is offering a series of free behavioral health training sessions to the public, with both virtual and in-person options available. The county said registration is required for most classes due to limited seating, except for the Rapid REVIVE! program.
The initiative aims to provide residents with tools and knowledge to respond effectively to mental health challenges, substance use disorders, opioid overdoses, and suicide crises. These trainings are part of Loudoun County’s efforts to improve community awareness and intervention skills around behavioral health issues.
Among the offerings is Mental Health First Aid training, which teaches participants how to identify and respond to signs of mental illness or substance use problems. The county will offer two versions in May: one general adult program and another designed for adults who interact with youth. Both will be held at the Loudoun County Department of Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Services office in Sterling. Registration must be completed by Tuesday, May 19; more information can be found at loudoun.gov/MHFirstAid.
For opioid overdose prevention, Loudoun County provides two types of REVIVE! programs—Rapid REVIVE! and Virtual REVIVE!. Rapid REVIVE! allows individuals to complete a brief six-minute video-based session at any time without registration; participants receive free naloxone nasal spray either by mail or pickup after providing contact information. Virtual REVIVE! requires advance registration for a scheduled one-hour online class with similar naloxone distribution options upon completion. Additional details are available at loudoun.gov/revive.
Suicide prevention training is also offered through Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) sessions that teach three steps anyone can take if they suspect someone may be considering suicide. These virtual presentations last about an hour followed by discussion opportunities; schedules are posted at loudoun.gov/SuicidePreventionTraining.
Anyone needing accommodations or language assistance should contact the county’s Department of Mental Health three business days in advance by phone or email. More information about all prevention services is available on the department’s website.
