May 20, 2024
Media Contact: Julie Thacker, Julie.Thacker@vdh.virginia.gov
Crater Health District Convenes Educational Summit on Trauma and Substance Use Disorder
PETERSBURG, Va. – Crater Health District is convening an educational summit, “Beyond Adverse Childhood Experiences: Understanding the Intersection of Trauma and Substance Use Disorder (SUD)” at Richard Bland Community College on Wednesday, May 22 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The goals of the Summit are to destigmatize substance use disorder and increase knowledge related to SUD and the connection to trauma.
“Substance use disorder is a critical issue in the Crater region,” said Crater Health District Director Alton Hart, Jr., MD, MPH, MDiv. “We know that experiencing adversity and other forms of trauma can have a tremendous impact on a number of health issues, including the likelihood of experiencing SUD. We want our communities to come together to learn and share strategies for how we can work together to address this crisis.”
This is the third Beyond ACEs summit, and this year it is free for all attendees. Participants from social services, public health, healthcare, faith-based organizations, public sector officials, community-based organizations, parents, families, educators, and members of the community are encouraged to register to attend.
Due to an overwhelming response, in-person registration has closed. However, those interested in attending virtually can register at this link: redcap.link/VirtualBeyondACEsSummitRegistration.
Virtual attendees will have the opportunity to live stream the morning lived experience panel discussion, the afternoon keynote speaker, and the afternoon panel.
Keynote speaker Ryan Hampton is a nationally known advocate, speaker, and author, about mental health and recovery from substance use disorder. There will be workshops and panelists from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Participants will learn about a variety of topics related to the impact of substance use disorder on individuals and communities, as well as resilience building strategies.
To learn more about Crater Health District and to request VDH staff for trainings and community engagement opportunities visit: Crater Health District.
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