A captivated Albury audience fought back tears one moment, then laughed the next as they received an honest insight into the mind of a comedian and former drug addict.
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Greg Fleet spoke of his 30-year battle with drugs and associated illnesses to about 100 Border health workers and Lifeline volunteers on Wednesday.
He hoped to help the staff by telling his story in a humorous and engaging way.
“There were times a few years ago where I was probably more of a heroin addict but I also used ice for a while and people wanted to know what that was like and what my options were for getting out of it,” Fleet said.
“I hope people who listened will leave with the understanding of how the brain of an addict works and hopefully they can take that into their work with other addicts.
“It is hard to decide when you need help because you are medicating yourself.
“You're used to feeling that way and having that blanket - but at the same time it’s a nightmare to live that life.
“There are options and it's not the end of the world if you are an addict, there are ways out.”
The staff and volunteers were able to hear from not only the patient, but also the clinical point of view.
Albury Wodonga Health clinical leader of mental health, drug and alcohol Alan Fisher said he hoped to add information about the demographics of methamphetamines and other drugs.
He said Fleet gave a sense of depth, humanity and gutting honesty which clinicians were unable to provide.
“It was an opportunity to point out there are other drugs of significant concern as well,” Mr Fisher said.
"Many people still have trouble with prescription drugs, alcohol and synthetics - we can’t lose sight of that.
“It was a chance to also see the clinical side and the frustrations we have getting people into treatment.”
Lifeline Albury Wodonga general manager Chris Pidd, who helped organise the event, said there were about 70 volunteers on the Border who offered crisis support.
“The questions asked today were about that insight into the different styles of rehabilitation,” he said.
“It was very thought provoking about how rehabilitation programs are set up and how important it is that every person is looked after as themselves and not as a collective.”
