BreakThrough: Ice education for families in Leongatha

Families affected by a loved one’s methamphetamine use will be able to access information and support in Leongatha in November.

Breakthrough: ice education for families will cover key issues about ice, its effects on the brain and body as well as how to improve family relationships, access appropriate support and explore treatment options. 

The joint initiative between Turning Point, Self Help Addiction Resource Centre (SHARC) and the Bouverie Centre will deliver a workshop on Wednesday 22 November from 6.15-9.30pm at the Leongatha Library, 2 Smith Street.

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

“This program aims to provide an insight into what ice 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.” 

Education officer Anna Guthrie said family members are often overlooked while their loved ones receive support and that BreakThrough aims to ensure they are connected with the support services they need.

“Family members feel a mixture of grief, shame and isolation,” Ms Guthrie said. “As soon as they come to a BreakThrough session they realise they are not the only ones impacted by this issue and that in itself is somewhat reassuring.”

“We aim to empower families to switch the focus from trying to fix their loved one with the ice problem to getting help for themselves and taking care of their own needs.”

The workshop, funded through the Government’s Ice Action Plan, will complement the important work being done in the local community by service providers such as Gippsland Southern Health Service.

To register for this BreakThrough session go to: www.breakthroughforfamilies.com