New Lives Lived Well alcohol and drug counselling services are now available for people and families in Mackay.

The new services, funded by Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) and delivered by Lives Lived Well, were announced at a launch event in Mackay on 21 August 2017.

Speaking at the launch, Federal Member for Dawson George Christensen said the new program would enhance local support for people who need help.

“These newly-announced services will provide support to people and families who are affected by the harmful use of substances such as methamphetamine.

“These are much-needed specialised services, dealing with people who have drug-related issues and delivered by people who have hands-on experience. This new program fills a significant gap in services for our local community.”

Gillian Yearsley, Director of Mental Health for NQPHN, said the Mackay services had been identified through a health needs assessment process. “Through the process of community engagement and health planning, we have identified the need for improved access to community based Drug and Alcohol services at a local level,” Mrs Yearsley said.

“We are thrilled to announce the commissioning of Lives Lived Well to deliver counselling, case management, group programs, and outreach services to people and families across the Mackay region.

“The work of this service provider will greatly enhance the capacity of existing services in the local area, and work with individuals and their families to get things back on track.”

Lives Lived Well Chief Executive Officer Mitchell Giles thanked NQPHN for allocating funds for new alcohol and drug support services in the region. “Our team is ready to provide free and professional support to people experiencing problems with substance misuse, in particular ice, through the new ICE Help service,” he said.

“We also look forward to delivering a range of other supports, such as withdrawal support, counselling and group programs, later in October when our Alcohol and Other Drugs Withdrawal Program begins.

“Many of the people who seek our support in the region are experiencing problems with methamphetamine.

“We will now be able to help even more people and families being impacted by ice.”

While ice is a focus, Lives Lived Well’s counsellors are also trained to work with people who have problems with any kind of drug, including alcohol, and can offer care and support for a range of needs, from mild to complex. “Our flexible services allow for counselling to be delivered over the phone, face-to-face, and in group sessions,” said Mr Giles.

Lives Lived Well will work with Selectability, which will provide family and carer support and counselling as part of the new ICE Help service.

People who are thinking of addressing their use of alcohol or other drugs can contact Lives Lived Well on 1300 727 957.

For all media enquiries contact:

Michelle Saftich – Marketing & Media Officer
e [email protected] or [email protected]

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