Recognise and identify warning signs that may indicate underlying substance use issues — Join a free, CPD-approved interactive webinar
In March 2026, general practitioners (GP) and mental health professionals are invited to develop and strengthen their methods of effectively identifying and addressing hidden substance use concerns with their patients.
As healthcare professionals, identifying and responding to substance use concerns with your patients can be complex and requires both sensitivity and clinical insight. Substance use is not always disclosed and may present through subtle clinical, behavioural, or psychosocial indicators. Building confidence in recognising these signs supports GPs and practice teams to initiate timely, person-centred conversations and connect patients with appropriate supports, contributing to improved health outcomes and continuity of care.
Read on to learn more about the free, CPD-approved clinical education opportunities on offer.
About the ‘Opening the door’ webinar — develop the skills to identify and address substance use and mental health-related presentations
Brisbane South PHN and the University of Adelaide are proud to present the ‘Opening the door’ online webinar. This free webinar will explore practical screening approaches and build practitioner confidence in having important conversations with patients about substance use. Participants will also gain up-to-date knowledge about available support services and referral pathways in their local area, helping you to provide more comprehensive care for your patients.
This webinar provides an opportunity for GPs and mental health professionals to enhance their clinical skills in a supportive and interactive environment.
By the end of the online session, participants will be able to:
analyse and describe substance use trends prevalent within the Brisbane South PHN region, and explain the impact of commonly occurring substances on physical and mental health
identify clinical indicators of potential underlying substance use disorders and describe appropriate investigative approaches for identifying these indicators among patients presenting with apparently unrelated concerns
gain awareness of local support services and referral pathways available to patients with high-risk substance use issues.
Guest speakers:
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Dr Chris Holmwood |
Dr Matthew Stevens |
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Chris is an Addiction Medicine Specialist, with a background in custodial health and general practice. His main professional interest is in assisting non-alcohol-and-drug-specialist services help people with substance use-related problems. |
Matthew is a Senior Research Specialist working at Adelaide University and Flinders University. His research is focused on biomedical, public health and psychological approaches to identifying, preventing and treating substance use disorders and behavioural addictions. |
Join the free webinar
Two distinct webinars have been created for general practitioners (GPs) and mental health professionals:
Opening the door webinar — for mental health professionals
Date: Thursday 5 March 2026
Time: 9:30 am – 11 am (AEST)
Opening the door webinar— for GPs
Date: Thursday 12 March 2026
Time: 6:30 pm – 8 pm (AEST)