What’s happening?
Lives Lived Well is joining communities worldwide in recognising International Family Drug Support Day today, 24 February 2025.
The annual event highlights the essential role families play in supporting loved ones impacted by substance use.
The theme for 2025, “Time for Change,” calls for greater awareness, compassion, and improved access to support for families navigating these challenges.
Why it matters?
Since its inception in 2016, International Family Drug Support Day has grown into a global movement focused on reducing stigma, promoting harm reduction strategies, and ensuring families and carers receive the help they need.
++Lives Lived Well CEO Mitchell Giles emphasised the importance of supporting families, stating:
“Families play a pivotal role in a person’s journey toward recovery. By providing them with education, tools, and coping strategies, we can create a more supportive environment and improve outcomes for everyone involved.”
He further highlighted that when families receive support, the benefits extend beyond individuals, strengthening entire communities.
Local Impact
Lives Lived Well provides evidence-based programs across Queensland and New South Wales, helping individuals and families through residential rehabilitation, withdrawal programs, day programs, and family-focused services like Breakthrough for Families.
Some residential services also allow parents to stay with their young children during treatment, ensuring that families can heal together. These include:
- Binbi Family Recovery (Rockhampton)
- Logan Family Recovery (Chambers Flat)
- Elouera (Orange)
“Whether it’s through live-in treatment or other community-based options, our team is here to help,” Mr Giles said. “We welcome self-referrals and questions from family members, making it easier for people to access information and support when they’re ready.”
By the Numbers
- One in four Australians has been personally impacted by someone else’s alcohol or drug use.
- More than 230,000 Australians seek treatment for substance use each year.
- Lives Lived Well operates over 40 services across Queensland and New South Wales, providing critical support to individuals and families.
Zoom In
Lives Lived Well’s family-focused services recognise that substance use affects more than just the individual—it impacts loved ones too.
Programs like Breakthrough for Families help families understand substance use, develop coping strategies, and connect with support networks.
Zoom Out
International Family Drug Support Day is coordinated by Family Drug Support, an organisation providing 24/7 support through its national helpline (1300 368 186).
The annual day aims to raise awareness and drive policy changes to ensure families have better access to education, support services, and non-judgmental care.
What to Look for Next?
Lives Lived Well continues to expand its services, advocating for greater support and reduced stigma for families impacted by substance use. To learn more or access help, call 1300 727 957 or visit www.liveslivedwell.org.au.
For more on International Family Drug Support Day, visit internationalfdsday.fds.org.au.
