Effective Strategies & Practical Techniques for Addressing OUD & Co-occurring Conditions

About the Program

This course is designed to prepare first responders to effectively handle crises involving OUD and related mental health conditions. With the opioid epidemic posing significant challenges for public safety, first responders need the tools to respond with empathy, safety, and precision. Through four comprehensive modules, this course covers the complexities of OUD, including the use of Naloxone, the impact of co-occurring mental health disorders, legal considerations, and best practices for de-escalation. The goal is to equip officers with practical strategies to manage these crises safely, while building trust with individuals in need.

Ultimately, this course is aimed at improving first responder-community relations by fostering trust and reducing the stigma around addiction. By focusing on harm reduction and non-punitive approaches, first responders will be better positioned to support individuals with OUD, reduce the risk of escalation, and strengthen community ties through compassionate, effective interventions.

Program Curriculum

Each module introduces key concepts such as the CARE approach - Calm the Situation, Assess for Danger, Respond with Empathy, and Engage Resources - which serves as a practical framework officers can apply in the field. First Responders will learn how to assess and manage high-risk situations, utilize verbal and non-verbal communication techniques, and connect individuals to appropriate care services. In addition, the course provides real-world case studies and scenario-based exercises that reinforce these skills and strategies in action.

Included with the course is the Operational Readiness for First Responders: OUD Power-Pack. This toolkit includes the program workbook with lesson guides and discussion topics, e-books, templates, reference posters, and referral network guide. These resources ensure first responders have easy access to important information and can build on their skills beyond the course itself. They also serve as quick references during real-world situations where immediate action is necessary.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:

• Recognize the behavioral and physical signs of OUD and detail its impact on individuals and communities.
• Describe the role of co-occurring mental health conditions in complicating OUD treatment and response efforts.
• Respond to an Opioid Overdose Emergency and the proper use of Naloxone.
• Apply verbal and non-verbal de-escalation techniques to safely manage crises involving individuals with OUD.
• Navigate the legal considerations involved in responding to OUD, including explaining the rights of individuals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Utilize community resources and mental health services to provide ongoing support and care for individuals affected by OUD.
• Document crisis interventions effectively to reduce liability and protect both law enforcement and individuals in crisis.

Module 1 - Understanding OUD & Co-occurring Conditions

Gain an in-depth look at OUD and its common co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. You'll learn to recognize the behavioral and physical signs of OUD, understand the challenges posed by co-occurring conditions, and explore the best practices for identifying individuals at risk. By the end of the module, you'll have a foundational understanding of how to respond effectively to these crises, focusing on compassionate care and safe intervention.

Module 2 - Recognizing & Responding to OUD

Become equipped with the tools and techniques necessary to recognize and respond to individuals experiencing a crisis due to OUD. You will explore the key behavioral and physical signs of opioid use and learn how to apply verbal and non-verbal de-escalation techniques to safely manage high-risk situations. This module emphasizes crisis intervention strategies that prioritize both first responders and public safety, while helping individuals with OUD receive the care they need.

Module 3 - Best Practices for Field Collaboration

Learn how to engage with healthcare providers, treatment centers, and community resources to ensure individuals receive the appropriate care. Emphasizing harm reduction principles, this module covers best practices for field collaboration and the importance of building strong partnerships with local and state resources. By integrating these strategies, you'll foster safer interactions in the field. Additionally, you'll gain a comprehensive guide to national and local resources for mental health and substance use disorder treatment, reinforcing how to put these strategies into action and ensuring better outcomes for those in crisis.

Module 4 - Real-World Application & Resource Utilization

This module brings together everything you've learned through scenario-based exercises designed to apply the skills and strategies needed to handle crises involving OUD. You will participate in realistic scenarios, using the CARE approach - Calm the Situation, Assess for Danger, Respond with Empathy, and Engage Resources - as well as de-escalation techniques, collaboration skills, and referral processes to connect individuals with the appropriate resources. You'll also develop a Crisis Intervention Action Plan by incorporating the CARE approach and strategies you’ve learned to de-escalate the situation and ensure safety.

Get Your Team Started Today!

Prepare your department for the challenges posed by the opioid crisis. By enrolling your first responders in this comprehensive course, you're equipping them with the critical skills and knowledge needed to safely and effectively respond to individuals in crisis. This training covers de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention, and strategies for managing opioid use disorder, ensuring that your team is prepared. Give your first responders the tools to handle these situations with confidence, protect your community, and build stronger relationships with those you serve.

External Partnership

In an effort to broaden our course offerings, Syracuse University has partnered with leaders in their respective fields to provide learning opportunities for our students. This course is brought to you through our partnership with Z School. Once you have completed the checkout process, you should expect to be contacted by a Z School representative within 1-3 business days with information on how to access your course material and getting started. They will be your main point of contact while you are going through the coursework. Feel free to reach out to Syracuse University if you have any questions at microcredential@syr.edu or 315.443.2588.