FDS Insight Magazine Jun - Sep 2023

12 being on a rollercoaster, lurching from one crisis to another, that it is emotionally devastating and that she has had to call FDS regularly for support in recent weeks. Family Drug Support has been essential in helping Mary to realise that she has no control over her daughter’s drug use but that she can be a source of love and support for her daughter whilst also taking care of her own wellbeing. A post-event survey found that the majority of respondents had attended IFDSD for the first time and that 96% would come again (4% said maybe). The highlights of the day for respondents were: • The talk by a mother of a drug user. • The brave recounting of personal journeys. • Cigdem’s speech was very powerful for me. It was very inspiring to hear from someone who has recovered from drug addiction. I know the statistics for recovery are not good, but it was very reassuring for me to hear her story. It was also very helpful to hear Tony’s comment about the influence of families on their loved one; the most helpful thing for the person using drugs was that their family never gave up on them. And also, that the most ineffective thing was that they wouldn’t get ‘out of their face!’ I have resolved not to bring up the subject of rehab with my daughter - just check in from time to time - tell her what’s going on in my life and tell her I love her. I just have to ‘park’ my anger and sadness and fear! • The speech by the Greens politician. • Personal stories by speakers. • Talking with others, renewing acquaintances and seeing the wonderful level of commitment that all the volunteers and workers are making. • Listening to other people and acknowledging that I need to look after myself. • Personal success stories. • The personal stories, they were intense and very impactful. • Lived experience. • The brave family members and people with a lived experience of addiction sharing their stories. • Catching up with Sandra and Tony. • All speakers were great. • The speeches from sector thought leaders (Odyssey House, Greens MP) and Tony and his daughter talking from sibling perspective. • Personal stories. • Hearing experiences from a variety of family and personal perspectives. Having Cate F speak about drug policy reform. • The chance for partnership for the best outcomes for the consumer. FDS offers a support no one else is