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Events to help people understand addiction

Two events in Portland and Warrnambool this month will help people to better understand addiction.

The free Understanding Addiction community support and education events for families and friends will be held at the Warrnambool Library & Learning Centre 8 Kepler St, Warrnambool Tuesday October 25 from 5:30—8:30pm and Portland Library 32 Bentinck St, Portland Wednesday October 26 from 1-4pm.

Keynote speakers from Turning Point & Self Help Addiction Resource Centre (SHARC) will cover key issues about drugs and gambling, the effects on the brain and body, the relationship between drug use and mental health, strategies for dealing with the substance user and access to support and resources.

A joint initiative between Turning Point and SHARC, has delivered over 250 workshops state-wide since the program began in late 2015.

Turning Point director Professor Dan Lubman said the program is an excellent opportunity for major state-wide services to work together to reduce the harms associated with substance use and addictive behaviours.

“This program aims to provide an insight into what substance use and addictive gambling is, how it affects people and how to support family members into treatment,” Professor Lubman said. “We will also provide people with practical approaches in caring for themselves and other family members.”

The program is equally suitable for both interested community members and families who are directly impacted by a loved one’s substance use or gambling issues.

The centre piece will be “3 sides of the coin” a well renowned lived experience story telling event.

Attendance is free but registration is essential. To register for this program, hosted by Portland District Health Service, go to: www.breakthroughforfamilies.com/attend or call the Family Drug and Gambling Helpline on 1300 660 068.

Several local services will be showcased, including WRAD, Bethany, Brophy Family and Youth Services, Southwest Health Care and Portland District Health AOD.

Family Drug and Gambling Help, a program of SHARC, offers a confidential telephone service providing support to family members and friends in need. The helpline is staffed by trained volunteers who know what it’s like to love someone with substance misuse. Phone 1300 660 068 24 hours, 7 days a week.

For drug and alcohol issues, call Directline 1800 888236, or WRAD 55 645777