It is believed to be the only support group of its kind in Bendigo.

The Family Drug Support Group will be run by Bendigo Community Health Services family drug support and recovery practitioner Alison Harper.

Miss Harper said the group was designed be informative, as well as supportive.

The eight-week-program would include advice about self-care, conflict resolution and boundary setting.

It would also help participants consider the impact and influence they could have on the person using drugs or alcohol.

But Miss Harper said it would start with the basics, like what those living with the effects of drug or alcohol use should look out for.

She said the group aimed to create a supportive environment for families, friends and carers.

"They don't have to feel so isolated," she said.

Stigma could prevent people from relying on their usual support networks for help.

Miss Harper was hopeful the support group would give those living with the effects of drug or alcohol use the opportunity to share their experiences and relate to each other.

"Individuals seek that support because they're having a hard time talking to family and friends," she said.

Bendigo Community Health Services last year identified improved resources, more education and a strong community approach as key to reducing the number of unintentional overdose deaths in the region.

The Penington Institute's annual overdose report showed a 137 per cent increase in the amount of unintentional overdose deaths in Bendigo - the second-highest increase in regional Victoria.

"Research shows that when a community takes on the belief that addiction is a health issue, the stigma around accessing treatment for drug use reduces," Bendigo Community Health Services alcohol and other drugs team manager Jan Dunlop said at the time.

The Family Drug Support Group starts on January 29 and runs for about 1.5 hours a week at the Fork In The Road community hub on Hargreaves Street in Bendigo.

For more information or to register, call Bendigo Community Health Services on 5406 1200.