Residential Withdrawal units, sometimes called ‘Detox’ or ‘withdrawal units’ are safe, supportive units staffed 24/7 by youth AOD workers where a young person can stay for up to 2 weeks.
During this time they may experience withdrawal – their body and brain adjusting to not having alcohol or drugs after having developed a dependency on these things. Nurses and usually a doctor will help them cope with these physical symptoms and youth workers support them with emotional needs during this time.
Whilst living in the unit, young people have the opportunity to participate in activities such as art or music programs, going to the gym or movies, drug education sessions, or 1:1 sessions with a masseuse, acupuncturist or naturopath.
Healthy eating and sleeping are encouraged, as is talking to medical staff about any physical or mental health issues.
Most importantly residential withdrawal units provide a safe drug free space for young people to recover from recent substance use and make plans for ‘where to from here’.
For many young people Residential Withdrawal is a safe drug-free place they may return to several times.
Due to the intense support available in a residential withdrawal unit, they are best suited to young people with little family or community support or who don’t have access to safe, drug-free environments.
Want to know more about detox? Our video explains how detox can support young people and this short video shows an example of a withdrawal unit run by YSAS.
