Home Based Withdrawal (HBW) is where a young person gets linked up with a drug and alcohol outreach worker who is also a registered nurse.
They meet up 1:1 to discuss substance use and also get practical support with health issues.
Health issues can be challenging to deal with at any time of life, but ongoing health problems (physical or emotional) can hit young people hard. Drugs that reduce pain, anxiety or worry can be particularly appealing to young people with health concerns. On the other hand, substance use can often make health issues worse.
This can be a great option for young people who experience chronic illness, complex medication regimes, are on pharmacotherapy, experience medical complications from injecting or who have health issues (such as dental problems) that they would like to address. Home-based withdrawal nurses also work with young women who are pregnant and using substances.
Young people who wish to reduce their substance use and have a safe, stable, drug free home environment to attempt this can also benefit from visits from home-based withdrawal nurses.
It is important to note that there are some instances where it is risky to rapidly reduce substance use in the community and residential detox is recommended. Home-based withdrawal nurses work closely with residential withdrawal units to make this possible. Â
Home-based withdrawal nurses also work with young women who are pregnant and using substances.
Get help now
YoDAA is a free and confidential online and phone service that offers supports to young people, families and professionals. You can contact 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday.