Self-directed Help is where a young person accesses booklets, books, videos, websites, worksheets or even apps to work through or explore substance use issues.
It is low cost, flexible support option for young people. Best of all, even though Self-directed help usually occurs without another person, you can also check out the resources and use them to help!
Young people who already have their basic needs met and have a safe and supportive home environment, may want to start looking at Self-directed help to reduce use, minimise harm or to prevent relapse. It is great for young people who are not at immediate danger due to their substance use. Young people who are still working on the problems that underpin their use (and still using substances) can still engage in Self-directed help and there are resources especially designed to help them to stay safe and avoid risks while using.
Likewise, young people who you feel may be reluctant to get help may use self-directed help to ‘suss out’ the options and prepare themselves for engaging the professionals. Some young people, like adults can also feel uncomfortable sharing their problems with a professional ‘face to face’, so rather than pushing them to engage, self-directed help can be a good option while they mull over whether or not they would consider seeing a worker.
Typically, resources used for Self-directed help can be provided by a Youth AOD worker or online such as in YoDAA’s self-help section for young people. Mobile applications are also increasingly popular with young people as a way to track their substance use, set goals, and get information and education.
