FDS 2023 Annual Report

20 world! This is a big statement to make, however the research from other academics in the field identified that most of the programs available to families were directive and did not include a harm reduction framework. The Stepping Stones Program – The Family Perspective study contributes to the evidence base which demonstrates that family support is key to better outcomes for a relative using drugs or alcohol. Affected family members (AFM) play a critical role in supporting a relative experiencing substance dependence. Since 2001, FDS has delivered the psycho-educational program Stepping Stones to over 2000 families. The study explores the experience of AFM who participated in the program, with the aim of including families’ perspectives within the academic discourse, in policy and in service delivery. Fourteen AFM who attended the Stepping Stones program between 2017 and 2019 contributed to the qualitative study. Four key themes were abstracted from the data and these were: Barriers to Accessing Support Services; The Power of Connection; Empowerment through Education; and Healing Family Systems . AFM experienced a reframe of stigmatisation and the reinstatement of self-agency and efficacy through boundary setting, conflict resolution and effective communication with their relative. Coping and resilience strategies built capacity within the family system. Diversity within the group setting in relation to socio-economic status, cultural background, parenting approaches, trauma stories and family constellation reflects the non-discriminatory nature of addiction. While normalisation of the experience and relief were recurrently reported, five participants revealed that protective factors were not enough to shield their relative from substance dependence. Overall, participation in the Stepping Stones program loosened the grip of family pathology, which had immobilised many AFM from engaging in help-seeking. This research highlights the importance of educating health professionals on family inclusive and anti- oppressive practice and challenges systemic and culturally embedded discrimination against individuals and families adversely affected by drugs or alcohol. If you are interested in finding out more about this research please visit: https://insight.qld.edu.au/training/stepping-stones-program-the-family-perspective/detail Anna Daglish – FDS Clinical Services Manager, QLD & ACT 2023 Australia & New Zealand Addiction Conference FDS Clinical Services Managers Anna Daglish and Chloe Span presented at the 2023 Australia & New Zealand Addiction Conference. Affected family members (AFM) play a critical role in supporting a relative experiencing substance dependence. Chloe Span and Anna Daglish (Family Drug Support) explored the experience of AFM who participated in the program, with the aim of including families’ perspectives within the academic conversation, in policy and in service delivery.