Buzzed: Understanding Drugs, Effects, etc.

This learning path provides staff with foundational knowledge about substance use, drug effects, risk awareness, and trauma-informed engagement strategies within behavioral health settings. Using evidence-informed concepts from Buzzed: The Straight Facts About the Most Used and Abused Drugs, participants will explore how substances affect the brain, behavior, decision-making, and long-term health outcomes. The learning path is designed to strengthen staff understanding of: Neurotransmitters and drug effects on the brain Tolerance, dependence, and addiction Major drug categories and associated risks Harm reduction and overdose prevention concepts Social influence, peer pressure, and perceived norms Trauma-informed and nonjudgmental approaches to substance use discussions Decision-making and impairment awareness Protective factors and safety strategies Interactive discussions, real-world examples, and practical application activities are included throughout the course to support engagement and workplace relevance across PBHC entities.