Addiction was the topic of conversation at a Southern Highlands Men's Health night on November 7.
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Senior Coordinator South Western Sydney Primary Health Networks for Odyssey House, which covers the Wingecarribee Shire Russell Bickford and Alcohol and Other Drugs Counsellor Johan Torsteinsrud were on hand at the meeting to share their knowledge on the topic.
The meeting also marked the opening night of this year's Southern Highlands Men's Health Month at the St Jude's Church auditorium in Bendooley Street, Bowral.
Odyssey House NSW was founded in 1977 by Sydney businessman, Walter McGrath, following the death of his son from a heroin overdose.
As a testament to his son, Mr McGrath committed himself to finding a program to help other people who suffered from problems with drug dependence.
From humble beginnings, the program has expanded to be one of the largest and most successful alcohol and other drug rehabilitation services in Australia. More than 35,000 people have been assisted over the past 40 years.
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Among those at the recent health night was Tom Carroll who sung the praises of the presentation.
He said that guests at the Southern Highlands Men's Health meeting learned that addiction could mean many things to many people, but in general it referred to repeatedly using a substance or engaging in an activity for pleasure, even though doing so caused harm or interfered with everyday life.
"While the three main forms of addiction in Australia are gambling, smoking and alcohol which are regulated by the government, it also can be prescription medications, exercise, internet, shopping, sex or overeating," he said.
"However, most of us think of drugs which include heroin, cannabis or amphetamine.
"Methamphetamine is just ahead of alcohol as the primary drug of concern in our area and the major range of ages presented at Odyssey House is between 35-44 and with the 25-34 age group it represents nearly 60 percent of their local clients. Sixty six percent of their clients are male, of which 88 percent are non-indigenous."
Odyssey House operate an Outreach Service at 22 Bendooley Street in Bowral and can be reached on 1800 397 739 or their website https://www.odysseyhouse.com.au/
On Thursday, November 14 commencing at 6pm sharp - "On the go with Arthritis" will be presented by Andrew and Cat from Arthritis NSW www.arthritisnsw.org.au. This presentation will look at what is Arthritis and Osteoporosis, what causes it, how you can manage yours or your partner's arthritis, details about diet and nutrition, and possible cures.