Since 2015, BreakThrough: Families understanding addiction has helped family members across Victoria better understand addictive behaviours, improve communication and wellbeing, and access appropriate support networks. BreakThrough offers practical strategies and support, and provides an opportunity for family/friends/partners of people with addictive behaviours to connect and learn from each other.

Special event

Christmas is the time of the year when most people have expectations of “the perfect day” involving loving family members coming together to share food, laughter and gifts. The reality, of course, can be very different, particularly for people estranged or separated from loved ones, and those dealing with the constant and seemingly unending issues associated with addiction. Financial pressures, loneliness, guilt, and increased conflict can all play a role in the anxiety people feel about upcoming “celebrations” and the sense of disappointment when these events don’t quite match expectations.

Join BreakThrough for a presentation and discussion about how to stay sane over the holiday season. Guest speakers Marina Klose and Sandra Hamlet from Turning Point will talk about how to manage difficult situations, the importance of self-care, and where to get extra support during this emotional time.

Presenters

Marina Klose is a telephone and online counsellor in Turning Point’s telephone and online services (TOLS) team, which includes DirectLine and Counsellingonline. Marina has worked in family and domestic violence settings, as well as in alcohol and other drugs (AOD) for 4 years, and delivers industry training for workers in the AOD sector.

With 7 years experience in the AOD sector, Sandra Hamlet is a shift supervisor and counsellor in Turning Point’s telephone and online services team. Sandra splits her between TOLS and Workforce Development, where she has been developing and delivering a new graduate program in telehealth.