Successful Completion of E-Seminar on Stimulants Use & Overdose Management
We are pleased to announce the successful conclusion of our e-seminar, titled “Stimulants Use & Overdose Management,” which took place on August 31, 2023, coinciding with International Overdose Awareness Day (#IOAD23). This event represented a significant step in our ongoing commitment to raising awareness, offering support, and advocating for evidence-based harm reduction practices in our communities.
The Seminar
The Southeast Asia Harm Reduction Association (AHRA) hosted a 3-hour e-seminar, focusing on Stimulants Use & Overdose Management. The primary aim was to equip public health practitioners with the knowledge and expertise needed to effectively address these issues, aligning with harm reduction strategies that promote community well-being.
Featured Speakers
The seminar featured two notable speakers who provided insights into Ketamine and Methamphetamine. Dr. Josh Torrance from the Rave Aid Crew presented on Ketamine, while Francis Josepph from the Network of Asian People who Use Drugs (NAPUD) delivered a comprehensive talk on Methamphetamine. Their presentations were informative and valuable for our audience.
Session Highlights
The seminar was structured into two sessions:
Session 1: Ketamine Use and Overdose Management
- Introduction and Uses of Ketamine
- Understanding How Ketamine Affects the Brain and Body
- Psychological and Physiological Effects of Ketamine
- Risks and Complications of Ketamine Use
- Identifying Ketamine Overdose and Immediate Intervention
Session 2: Introducing Methamphetamine
- Understanding Stimulant Drugs
- Recognizing Stimulant Drug
- Harm Reduction Commodities for Methamphetamine Users
- Stimulant Harm Reduction Strategies
- Testing, Treatment, and Overdose Management
The seminar was conducted in English, with Burmese, Bahasa Indonesian and Vietnamese interpretation services available to cater to our diverse audience.
Accessing Recorded Sessions
For those who were unable to attend the live event or wish to revisit the knowledge shared by our experts, recordings of the sessions will be made available.
With 270 participants from diverse backgrounds, including harm reduction practitioners, peers, law enforcement, social-medical workers, and individuals with a drug control background, the e-seminar on “Stimulants Use & Overdose Management” is receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback. Initial evaluations indicate that 95% of participants expressed a strong desire for more such events in the future. The seminar is widely perceived as highly useful and informative, underscoring the importance of addressing stimulant use and overdose management in our communities. This strong response reaffirms the commitment of AHRA and its partners to continue hosting similar events in the pursuit of safer and healthier communities, as requested by the participants.
Acknowledgments
We extend our gratitude to all the donors, participants, speakers, and partners who contributed to the success of this event. Your commitment to harm reduction and community well-being is highly appreciated.
Future Endeavors
We look forward to hosting more informative events in the future. Stay connected with us for updates on upcoming seminars and initiatives.
Join Our Mission
For more information and access to the seminar recordings, please visit our website. Thank you for being a part of AHRA’s mission to foster safer and healthier communities.
Together, we can work toward a safer and healthier future for all.
AHRA – Committed to Community Well-being
