Dr Nora

You’re not alone 💖

One of the biggest benefits of social media is awareness.

Domestic Violence has played a large role in the news over the past week and as a result more victims have been coming forward to seek help from this.

Domestic violence is gender neutral and isn’t always about physical abuse but it also includes:

- sexual abuse where you’re forced to engage in unwanted sexual activity

- Verbal abuse including name calling

- Emotional abuse with demeaning comments or threats - Financial abuse where access to money could be limited

- Spiritual or cultural abuse so you’re not allowed to practice your beliefs

- Stalking by means of being followed or being constantly watched.

Most victims feel trapped and stuck but it’s important to know that there’s a lot of help out there.

If you or a loved one are affected please come by and see me in clinic for further help and advice.

Take care and stay healthy x

Dr Nora 😘

Useful resources:

💻 dvconnect.org 1800 811 811

💻 reachout.com ☎️ 1800Respect: 1800 737 732

☎️ Domestic Violence Line: 1800 656 463

Source: https://instagram.com/p/BrWkmtfA4XA/

The misuse of prescription medication is becoming a health emergency in Australia.

This week is Preventing Prescription Medication Misuse Week and aims to raise awareness to the public about this serious concern and how to get help.

In Victoria alone more people die due to prescription medication overdose than on the road.

Which medicines are to blame?

The two main medications: -💊Opioids are commonly use to manage pain, particularly after surgery and end of life care. it can also be used for severe short term painful conditions. Examples include, oxycodone, codeine and fentanyl. -💊Benzodiazepines are a sedative medication, this means they are often prescribed for sleep problems or anxiety. They include diazepam, temazepam and alprazolam. They also have a limited role for short term issues but are not useful for ongoing treatment.

Anyone can become addicted to these medications, particularly if they are using them regularly for a long time. The body will also develop a tolerance which means more is needed to get the same effect.

In a recent survey 90% of Australians could not identify warning signs of opiod dependance.

What are some of the signs and symptoms of abuse or addiction?

- regular or continuous use to cope.

- neglecting responsibilities

- dangerous or risky behaviour

- withdrawal symptoms e.g. craving

- loosing control of substance use

How to get help 🆘

It is important to recognise when your substance use has become a problem and seek medical advice from your General practitioner. There are also a number of great helplines:

📞 Lifeline 13 11 14

📞 Family Drug Support 1300 368 186

If you, a friend or a family member are concerned about addiction please come and see me in clinic for further advice and help.

Take care and stay healthy 😊

Dr Nora x

Information gathered from scriptwise.org.au

Source: https://instagram.com/p/BivVMwDnLDe/