Campaign targeting opioid overdose

A MONTH-long push by Ballarat Community Health is aiming to prevent opioid overdose deaths in the region.

BCH’s manager of alcohol and other drugs services Suzanne Powell said the key goal is to raise awareness of the problem.

“It’s an ongoing issue, and it happens with people that are not only using illicit substances but also prescribed opioids,” she said.

“We’re targeting any opioids for pain relief like oxycontin to illegal substances, things like heroin.

“But the community using those prescription drugs may not be aware of the side-effects and the implications of long-term opioid use.

“There’s a real stigma behind it. I think people associate overdose deaths with people who use illegal substances but that’s not always the case.”

Initiated by BCH harm reduction coordinator Kate Davenport, the program is running throughout August, and in part is publicised via an electronic billboard on Curtis Street.

The advertising encourages people to learn more about the issue and its overdose reversal drug naloxone.

To cap off the campaign, a free forum will take place at the Ballaarat Mechanic’s Institute on Wednesday, 31 August to tie in with International Overdose Awareness Day.

Ms Powell will present at the event alongside other BCH alcohol and other drugs representatives.

“We’ll be providing information and statistics about overdose but also how to access naloxone and alcohol and other drug treatment,” Ms Powell said.

“Quite often people in the community aren’t aware of what treatment is available and how we provide that service.

“It will also provide a space for those who’ve lost someone to overdose, we’ll provide that reflection time and space to remember those people.”

The BCH campaign is also supporting the National Take Home Naloxone program, which is aiming to make the drug available without a prescription.

To register for the event, visit bit.ly/3SpOSMh.