Drug ARM (awareness, rehabilitation, management) is a non-for-profit organisation that works with individuals and families who are impacted by drug and alcohol dependence in the local community. Not only does this service offer FREE counselling to people coping with debilitating substance abuse, the significant others of people who are dependent on drugs and/or alcohol can also receive counselling. Some offices like the one in Warradale offer the clean needle program, where users can dispose of dirty needles and receive support around harm reduction. Drug ARM counsellors are all volunteers who spend their free time to help those in need. There is no other service like it.

This week the Adelaide Primary Health Network has decided to cut all funding to Drug ARM offices located in Hillbank and Warradale South Australia, this will lead to their permanent closure. Hundreds of people who are suffering will now have zero support, the community will be shattered from this. It is important to understand the impact this will have on current problematic drug users AND those who are at risk of becoming dependent. The reality of this movement to close these services will show people being left to fight their battles on their own. Substance dependence is a serious illness, the APHN wants to take away the chance for these individuals to recover the people they were born to be. But don't only think about them, think about the community and how you want it to be perceived by young people growing up through this time. Drug education, harm minimisation and unconditional support is what the community needs to heal these particular wounds.

With the current climate COVID-19 has placed on the world, everybody is struggling. Research polls have already discovered the increase in alcohol consumption in Australian homes with 70% of Aussies stating they are now drinking more than they did before the outbreak. Not only will alcohol and drug misuse increase, suicide and mental illness incidence will too.

Please sign this petition to show those who have taken away our power to help, that we want it back! Please show your support to those suffering with mental illness and show your support for your fellow human!