What is The Hidden Duo?
The Hidden Duo is an early intervention program designed to educate middle and high school students in East Tennessee about co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Throughout the school year, educators from the Mental Health Association visit local schools to provide interactive, student-focused education.
Mental health and substance use are often taught separately, even though they commonly affect one another. The Hidden Duo was created to bridge the gap by helping students understand how these challenges can interact, influence behavior, and impact overall well-being.
Contact info@mhaet.com to learn more or schedule for your school, after-school program, or other youth-serving group.
Sara O’Brien, Co-Occurring Disorders Program Coordinator
Sara O’Brien, MPH, CHES is a graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she obtained both a Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience with a minor in Psychology and a Master of Public Health degree with a concentration in Community Health Education and minor in Epidemiology. She is a Certified Health Education Specialist and is passionate about educating others on mental health and substance misuse, as well as reducing the stigma that surrounds mental health care. Sara enjoys reading, traveling, trying new restaurants, going to Tennessee football games, and spending time with her fiancé, Matt, and her dog, Winston.
Sophie, Co-Occurring Disorders Educator
Sophie is a graduate from Brigham Young University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health with an emphasis in Health Science. She is passionate about health education and helping individuals gain the knowledge and skills they need to advocate for themselves. With a background working with children, she has found a love for the youth she works with and helping them prioritize their personal well-being. Sophie lives in Knoxville with her husband Lochlaen. When she is not at work she enjoys spending her free time outside, hiking, cooking, thrifting, traveling, and trying new things.
This project is funded under a grant contract with the State of Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services
