Death by overdose is loaded with social and moral stigmas, in addition to strong feelings of anger, helplessness, guilt and shame within families. Families do not always know that a loved one is using drugs, so when a death by overdose occurs, it deprives family members of preventative action. When families are aware of drug use, there can be a "veiled preparation" for a possible death by overdose, bringing about ambivalent feelings of grief and relief. It is incredibly disturbing to lose a family member by overdose, or suicides under the influence of substances. When you are bereaved by a drug related death, you are often part of a stigmatised and invisible social group.
We offer a specialist, telephone or virtual, counselling service for those bereaved by a drug related death (DRD) and those who may have experienced - or been affected by -a non-fatal overdose. This service is available to you if you live in Surrey and if:
- you have been bereaved through a drug related death, which may have been intentional or accidental.
- you, or someone close to you, has experienced a non-fatal overdose.
Our telephone or virtual counselling service offers structured and intensive interventions delivered by experienced and competent BACP Registered therapists. A Counsellor will contact you within a maximum of 7 working days and up to 12 weekly sessions will be offered. This service is FREE of charge.
Clients in crisis can be offered additional sessions during a week or 15-minute check calls to support them.