Last week, Northern Health’s Addiction Psychiatry and Toxicology (APT) team hosted the first-ever Acute Withdrawal Symposium. The event aimed to spark conversation around integrated care, increase awareness of substance dependence and related conditions, and explore the future of substance use services and treatment.

The symposium was opened by Executive Director for Mental Health, Ms Belinda Scott, who said, “At Northern Health, we believe healthcare should be accessible to everyone who needs it, with no wrong door for consumers seeking support. Separation of services creates barriers, and true person-centred care means meeting people where they are, with the support they need, when they need it.”

The event featured a keynote address from Dr Zeff Koutsogiannis, Clinical Toxicologist and Emergency Physician, who delivered a simple yet powerful message: “People who use drugs are people.” He highlighted that empathy and non-judgemental care contribute to better outcomes for consumers, reflecting Northern Health’s values of Safe, Kind, Together.

Victoria’s Chief Addiction Medicine Officer, Dr Paul McCartney, shared insights into the future of addiction medicine services in Victoria. The symposium included several talks on different acute withdrawal conditions and concluded with a compelling consumer story from Trent, who shared his recovery journey with the APT team.

Reflecting on the symposium, A/Prof Joe Rotella, Clinical Director of APT, said, “The goal was not only to raise awareness and knowledge around substance dependence but to remind us that all consumers come to the hospital for a service, not a judgement. Terms like ‘IVDU’, ‘junkie’, or ‘addict’ have no place in a hospital or wider society. Keeping people central to our care ensures it isn’t hampered by stigma or bias.”

Ms Scott added, “We need more research, more innovation, and more collaboration to continue improving the care we provide. Gatherings like last week’s symposium are vital, they allow us to share knowledge, challenge assumptions, and commit to doing better.”

Joby Philip, APT Program Manager, who helped shape the symposium, said, “The success of this event is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our presenters and the entire team. Together, we’ve created something special.”

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing enthusiasm for future events. Encouraged by this response, the APT team is excited to announce that plans for the second Acute Withdrawal Symposium in 2026 are already underway, promising even more opportunities for learning, networking, and growth.