Donate Online Credit Card Once Off Donation Monthly Donation $50 $100 $250 Other $ $20 $50 $100 Other $ Donate by Credit Card All donations over two dollars are tax-deductible. Information will be handled according to our privacy policy. Paypal Donate by Paypal The link above takes you to our Paypal donation page for “Australian Medical Procedures Research Foundation Limited”. Barriers to Addiction and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Choose a story below pick a story imagine yourself as the main character. “content and trigger warning the following content may be emotionally challenging, some stories contain death and mention of specific paraphernalia.” Fresh Start’s 2024 Resolution: Addressing the Barriers to Addiction and Substance Use Disorder Treatment The past year has been one of growth for Fresh Start. We have expanded our outreach to help more people overcome addiction and substance use disorders. However, we know that there are still over 1 million Australians who are dealing with these illnesses, and we are determined to help as many people as possible in the coming year. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) has reported that only 10% of people dealing with addiction or substance use disorders (131,000 individuals) received professional treatment in 2021-22. This means that there are still 1,168,000 individuals who have not sought or received help for their illnesses, along with their families and communities. Our 2024 New Year’s Resolution is to address the four main contributing factors to this staggering statistic: Negative Stigma Surrounding Addiction and Substance Use Disorders Lack of Knowledge Regarding Treatment Options Costs of Treatment and Rehabilitation Waiting Times for Professional Help Negative Stigma Surrounding Addiction and Substance Use Disorders We understand the damaging effects of the negative stigma surrounding addiction and substance use disorders. Stigma can exacerbate feelings of shame, hopelessness, and isolation that individuals already feel when dealing with these illnesses. This can make them hesitant to seek treatment due to fear of judgment or lack of understanding from loved ones, friends, or others. In turn, this can make them feel unworthy of a life free from addiction or substance use disorders. We want to reduce the stigma around these diseases by upgrading our website to provide education on the facts, impacts, effects, and statistics of addiction and substance use disorders. We also want to build stronger relationships with the community through events and collaborations to make people aware that they are not alone in this struggle. Lack of Knowledge Regarding Treatment Options There are many services available to people dealing with addiction or substance use disorders, but it can be overwhelming to know where to start when seeking treatment. Additionally, many people in rural or remote areas across Western Australia are less likely to seek help due to a lack of connection with available treatment programs. We want to make it easier for people to find out how to get help by directing them to a new website that will be accessible to those with disabilities or language barriers. We will use various media channels to increase our reach across WA to people in need. Costs of Treatment and Rehabilitation The costs associated with treatment for addiction and substance use disorders can be substantial, creating financial difficulties for individuals and families. We are committed to keeping our prices affordable by providing payment plans and funding from the government, community businesses, groups, and members. We also have professionals who help individuals re-enter the workforce after treatment. Waiting Times for Professional Help The waiting times for treatment can be lengthy, which can be a significant barrier to seeking help. At Fresh Start, we offer same-day appointments with our walk-in service. We want to increase the number of doctors we have on any one day to accommodate more people and reduce waiting times. Fresh Start is on a mission to create a future free from the effects of addiction and substance use disorders for individuals, families, and communities across Western Australia. Please consider donating any amount you can afford to help us achieve our goals. Other ways to donate Phone Donations via credit card can be made over the phone. Contact us on 9381 1333. (please note that phones will be unattended from 22/12/2023 – 02/01/2024) Post If you wish to donate via credit card, cash or cheque: Click here for our printable donation slip, fill in the details and mail to: Fresh Start 65 Townshend Rd Subiaco WA 6008 For information about making a Bequest click here. To view our Privacy Statement click here.
