Ms Dunlop said there was still much work needed in the community to reduce the stigma surrounding drug-related deaths.
“Loved ones, families, friends and communities are deeply affected by any overdose death and are then forced to manage their grief with the added burden of the stigma associated with drug use. This can affect their ability to mourn publicly without feeling guilt or shame. This is something we must change,” Ms Dunlop said.
The Bendigo International Overdose Awareness Day event will focus on:
- Raising awareness of overdose risks, prevention strategies and how to respond to an overdose, including the availability and administration of life-saving medication Naloxone.
- Reducing stigma and myths around drug use.
- Raising awareness about Bendigo services that provide confidential advice and help with behaviour change and how to access them.
- Acknowledging the grief of those affected by an overdose death.
International Overdose Awareness Day originated in Melbourne in 2001 with more than 500 events now held across the world each year.
For more information on the Overdose Awareness Day event in Bendigo email or call (03) 5406 1200.
To learn more about Bendigo Community Health Services and our programs visit www.bchs.com.au or call (03) 5406 1200.
