Health Speaks: Substance Use Awareness & Overdose Response

Substance use is changing and knowing what to look for can make a real difference. Middle school is a time when students are navigating major social, emotional, and developmental changes. As a middle school teacher, you may be among the first to notice shifts in behavior, mood, attendance, peer relationships, or academic functioning that could signal a student needs support. UFT MAP is offering Health Speaks, a training series designed to help members better understand current substance use trends, recognize warning signs, and feel more prepared to respond when someone may be at risk. Each training provides practical information about today’s evolving substance use landscape, including the risks associated with illicit and counterfeit drugs and fentanyl. Participants will learn about current drug trends, prevention strategies, signs of substance misuse, how to recognize an overdose, and how to respond effectively in an emergency, including the use of naloxone, commonly known as Narcan. Naloxone will also be available through this initiative to support emergency preparedness and access to lifesaving resources.