🧠 Training Corner: Learn. Grow. Thrive.

Summer is a great time to refresh your knowledge, strengthen your skills, and invest in your professional growth. This month's Learning & Development spotlight focuses on understanding substance use disorders, practicing harm reduction, supporting your own well-being, and building emotional intelligence.

🌱 Learning Spotlight: Understanding Substance Use Disorders

On July 1, Blue Cross Blue Shield presented a virtual training to East House staff on the Basics of Substance Use Disorders. Together, we explored how substance use disorders (SUDs) are chronic, treatable health conditions—not character flaws or moral failings—and how understanding the science of addiction helps us provide compassionate, person-centered care.

Key takeaways included:

• Addiction changes brain function—it is not simply a matter of willpower.

• Recovery is possible and there are many pathways to healing.

• Harm reduction saves lives. Meeting people where they are, reducing the negative consequences associated with substance use, and building trusting relationships can be powerful first steps toward recovery. Harm reduction is rooted in dignity, respect, and the belief that every positive change matters.

• The language we use matters. Person-first, non-stigmatizing language promotes dignity, respect, and hope.

Instead of saying: "Addict"
Try: "Person with a substance use disorder."

Every interaction is an opportunity to reduce stigma and support recovery.

Missed the training or want to review the materials? The presentation is available on SharePoint → HR → Training → Blue Cross Blue Shield Trainings → Basics of Substance Use Disorders.

❤️ Harm Reduction in Action

Harm reduction is about meeting people where they are while promoting health, safety, and dignity. It recognizes that positive change happens one step at a time.

As you work with the people we serve, ask yourself:

• Am I leading with curiosity instead of judgment?

• How can I help this person be safer today?

• What strengths can I acknowledge and build upon?

Every compassionate interaction helps create opportunities for recovery.

☀️ Summer Wellness: Take Care of You, Too

Supporting others starts with caring for yourself.

Summer often brings busy schedules, higher temperatures, and changes in routine. Take a few moments each day to recharge:

• Take a short walk outside.

• Stay hydrated.

• Step away from your workspace during breaks.

• Check in with a colleague.

• Practice a few deep breaths before your next meeting or client interaction.

Small habits can make a meaningful difference in your energy and resilience.

🌿 EAP - Community Connections Webinar: Desk Break Reset

Did you know that small movements throughout the day can reduce muscle tension, improve posture, and increase energy?

Join Desk Break Reset – Everyday Ergonomics: Small Movements, Big Impact, a free 20-minute webinar designed for anyone who spends time at a desk.

You'll learn:

• ✅ Simple stretches for office workers

• ✅ A quick 5-minute desk reset routine

• ✅ Easy ways to stay active and reduce tension throughout the workday

Date: Tuesday, July 14
Time: 12:00 p.m. (EST)
Format: Zoom

Whether you work in an office, remotely, or in the field, these practical tips can help you feel your best throughout the workday.

💡 Coming Soon: Emotional Intelligence – Presented by eni EAP on September 2nd from 3 – 4 pm.

Strong technical skills are important—but emotional intelligence helps us communicate effectively, navigate difficult conversations, and build stronger relationships with coworkers and the individuals we serve.

Our upcoming Emotional Intelligence training will explore:

• Self-awareness

• Managing emotions under pressure

• Responding rather than reacting

• Building empathy

• Strengthening communication and teamwork

Want to register? Just accept your calendar invite!

⚡ In-the-Moment Learning

60-Second Reflection

Before your next interaction, pause and ask yourself:

"What does this person need from me right now?"

Sometimes the most powerful support we can offer is our presence and willingness to listen.

This Week's Micro Learning Challenge

Replace one assumption with one question.

Instead of:
"Why did they do that?"

Try:
"I wonder what happened?"

Curiosity strengthens relationships and supports a humanistic approach to care.

📚 Q3 Learning Reminder

Quarter 3 Mandatory Trainings are now available in Relias!

Why wait until September?

✔ Complete one course at a time throughout the quarter.
✔ Avoid the end-of-quarter rush.
✔ Stay compliant while making learning more manageable.

Q3 mandatory trainings are due by September 30.

Getting an early start helps you stay on track and supports our commitment to quality care, compliance, and continuous professional growth.

Every training completed strengthens our ability to live East House's values of being Humanistic, Collaborative, Optimistic, Progressive, and acting with Integrity—while providing the highest quality support to those we serve.