The Latest in LGBTIQ+ Health and Policy is a podcast that brings you the health and well-being hot topic discussions that matter to LGBTIQ+ people.
In this episode of The Latest, we are joined by Dr Chris Davis, co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Clean Slate Clinic, a pioneering telehealth service that offers medically supervised alcohol detox from the comfort of home. With a background in general practice and extensive experience supporting people with drug and alcohol challenges, Dr Davis shares his commitment to making alcohol detox more accessible, safer, and free from stigma. He highlights the importance of ensuring that marginalised populations, including LGBTIQ+ people, have access to care that respects and understands their unique experiences.
Dr Davis also speaks candidly about his personal journey, growing up in Northern England in the 1980s amidst internalised homophobia and his own struggles with alcohol moderation. He sheds light on the confronting reality that it can take, on average, 18 years from the onset of risky drinking to seeking professional help. This powerful conversation offers both insight and hope, demonstrating that it is possible to regain control and rebuild wellbeing at any stage.
For anyone who wants to seek help for their own or another person’s alcohol or drug use, contact the Alcohol and Drug Information and Support Services (ADIS). These are state and territory-based services that offer telephone counselling, information, referral and support. You can call the Alcohol Drug Information Service (ADIS) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 1800 250 015. For local numbers, search ‘ADIS’ and the jurisdiction you’re in.
QLife provides anonymous and free LGBTIQ+ peer support and referral for people in Australia wanting to talk about sexuality, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships.
Pivot Point is a one-stop-shop for LGBTIQ community members who are looking for support in relation to their alcohol or drug use
TouchBase is a national website providing information on alcohol and drug use as well as mental health and sexual health for LGBTI communities.
This podcast was produced by JOY Media – Australia’s Rainbow Community Media Organisation. For more information about JOY’s services, visit joy.org.au/services