Mr Semini has been attending the Youth Projects, a Glenroy health centre for drug users, since February and says he's now coping better with his addiction.

"I've overdosed a few times before and have lost some friends because of my drug problems," the 23-year-old says.

"The people at Youth Projects have given me support and are assisting me with a TAFE course application."

Mr Semini lived in Tullamarine for four years before moving to Sunbury last month.

Chairwoman at the centre Melanie Raymond says many young people like Mr Semini are struggling to cope with their addiction.

"So far this year we've had 338 clients with drug or alcohol-related problems, which is a lot compared to the 225 clients we had for all of 2006," Mrs Raymond says.

"We're effective in getting people back to school and work and we provide an outlet for drug addicts to talk about their issues with qualified counsellors."

Mrs Raymond says the centre has organised various activities for Overdose Awareness Day 2010, which takes place today across Australia.

"We had a ceremony at our centre on Friday for people who have lost friends or family to drugs," she said.

"We had music and candles and it was a very respectful occasion."

Mr Semini says he supports any event that raises awareness of the dangers of heavy drug use.

"Once you get addicted to the drug it becomes an uphill battle and you tend to lose that battle."

Anyone with drug and alcohol-related issues can contact Youth Projects: 9304 9100.