SWAN Hill Salvation Army staff are getting behind International Family Drug Support Day in a bid to reach out to families affected by someone with problematic alcohol and other drug (AOD) use.
The initiative coincides with The Salvation Army’s new AOD service funded by Murray Primary Health Network.
Salvation Army team leader George Mudford said the service was pleased to announce a new youth-focused service as well as support for family and friends.
“As part of the project we are developing a range of initiatives in collaboration with youth, AOD and other services,” Mr Mudford said.
“Some of the initiatives include prevention, early intervention and education for young people aged between 12-25.
“We will be engaging young people through school, sporting groups and other community settings over the coming weeks.
“We are also implementing support for family and friends which will include group sessions in Swan Hill.”
Mr Mudford said International Family Drug Support Day was a great way to spread the message on latest research and new approaches for treating AOD issues.
“The theme this year is Voices to be Heard and focuses on families staying connected through a loved one’s AOD use,” he said.
“The punitive tough love approach is not the ideal way to tackle the issue.”
“Problem AOD use is actually a health issue, and you wouldn’t withdraw support from family members just because they were unwell or not able to comply with treatment.
“We are hoping to spread that message across the region as well as let the community know of the types of help available.”
Mr Mudford added that staying connected did not mean that anyone should be a doormat for another person or accept any form of violence or abuse.
“It’s about setting boundaries while ensuring the person with problematic AOD use knows their family is on board to support them because people have a better chance of succeeding in any situation in life if they feel supported and connected,” he said.
“It offers the person hope for the future rather than a ‘waiting for rock bottom’ approach.
“Sadly, we know that rock bottom for some people is severe and catching people before rock bottom usually means the recovery process is smoother and faster.”
International Family Drug Support Day is an initiative of Family Drug Support Australia and due to COVID-19, events will take place online and can be accessed through their website.
Mr Mudford invited community to access the local website for advice, information and local news.
“We have staff available to provide information and direction to people with an AOD problem and their family and friends,” he said.
“We work from an evidence-based harm-reduction approach which means we are focused on helping to minimise the risks involved with substance use.
“Our services are free and confidential and the best way to find out more is to visit our website.
“We offer a range of supports across The Salvation Army including counselling, emergency relief, groups and advice and information to both young people and adults.”
To find out more, visit youthaod.com
