Drugs

Drugs destroy lives…..or do they? Everyone has an opinion about drugs, and usually a robust one. 

For some people living with mental health issues, the impacts of drug use can be devastating and even fatal. However, for some, intoxication can also be a source of joy, inspiration, and self-knowledge. What do you reckon? This episode features two of Australia’s most prominent and influential voices around all things related to drugs, and their opinions might not be the ones you expect.

Guests:

Professor Nadine Ezard is the Director of the National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs as well as being the Clinical Director of the Alcohol and Drug Service at St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney.

Nadine has over 25 year’s experience in the addiction medicine field and is considered one of Australia’s experts. After gaining her medical qualifications from the University of Melbourne, she acquired her Master of Public Health from Harvard and her PhD in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical medicine.

She has received multiple accolades being included in Australian Financial Review’s 100 Women of Influence. She has previously worked for the World Health Organization, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime.

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In Club Mind, Roy, Bill, and Caz ruminate on Nadine’s interview with candidness and gusto.
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Tony Trimingham OAM lost his son, Damien, 24 years ago to a heroin overdose. Since then, he started an organisation called Family Drug Support. He has been a counsellor and group leader for over 30 years and has assisted many families who suffer the impact of alcohol and other drugs on the lives of loved ones. 

In 1998, Prime Minister John Howard made him a founding member of the Australian National Council on Drugs – a principle advisory body to the federal government. Tony has been awarded many accolades for his work with the community, including being honoured with an Order of Australia medal for his work in the community.

IAMF! is supported by the Mental Health Commission of NSW.

Content warning -
Interviews include explicit language and feature topics such as depression, stigma and suicide. We acknowledge that this content may be difficult and we encourage listeners to take care of their safety and well-being.

Help is available -
Lifeline - call 13 11 14
Suicide Callback Service - call 1300 659 467 / suicidecallbackservice.org.au

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