HELP is on the way for families affected by drug and alcohol dependency.
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Family Drug Support will host Stepping Stones to Success in Bendigo on October 13 and 14 and October 20 and 21.
The course aims to increase people’s confidence and competence in managing drug issues and provides a reality-based approach that addresses self-care and self-worth.
Stepping Stones to Success manager Theo Chang said there were many families in and around Bendigo confused and saddened by a family member’s relationship with drugs.
He said the course, which requires people to set aside two weekends, armed people with skills so they could cope with the journey.
“There’s recognition even by family members that you can’t actually stop anyone from doing anything,” Mr Chang said.
“They may have tried everything – even things that they know won’t work – and they’re still trying because they’re desperate.
“But in the long run, families do recognise that when the drug user decides to change they will change.
“That doesn’t mean they need to remain powerless.
“It means that they can do work on things around the drug use, like trust, communication, self-care, which will create a positive environment.”
Family Drug Support has been active in Bendigo for more than two years in the form of a fortnightly support group.
The Stepping Stones to Success program also comes to Bendigo once or twice a year.
“Last time we had it in Bendigo there were 12 people,” Mr Chang said.
“We’ve run 170 courses over the past 10 years so we’ve seen 1055 people... wherever we go there’s a drug and alcohol problem.”
To book a place for Stepping Stones to Success, phone Mr Chang on 0402 604 354.
For 24-hours-a-day help and support, call 1300 368 186.??