Rehab and supported drug-free housing have long been traditional AOD services. How do these support types operate in a youth context and who is best suited for this type of support?

WHAT IS LONG-TERM RESIDENTIAL SUPPORT?

Long-term residential support includes residential rehabilitation. This support type provides group, drug-free accommodation for up to six months. Structured activities are offered daily for young people attempting to address their use of drugs or alcohol in a significant way.
Long-term residential support can also include supported accommodation, whereby young people live more independently in the community, usually in rental accommodation, but still participate in a program of tailored support.

WHAT INTERVENTIONS ARE OFFERED THROUGH LONG-TERM RESIDENTIAL SUPPORT?

  • AOD counselling
  • Community as therapeutic vehicle 
  • Primary health care and health education 
  • Activity-based therapeutic programming 
  • Life skills programming 
  • Motivational interviewing 
  • Foundational counselling 
  • Behavioural and other psychosocial interventions 
  • Peer support 
  • Supported referral and linkages 
  • Secondary consultation about other services 

WHICH YOUNG PEOPLE ARE BEST SUITED TO LONG TERM RESIDENTIAL SUPPORT?

Long-term rehabilitation requires the young person to live away from their regular circumstances for an extended period. It is best suited to young people:
  • With high or severe AOD use
  • Disconnected from school and employment opportunities
  • With high levels of family conflict
  • Who have attempted less restrictive support options.
Supported accommodation involves living semi-independently. It is best suited to young people who:
  • Are able, or who are learning, to manage their substance use without the need for intensive support
  • Have some basic independent living skills
  • Are unable to otherwise access stable accommodation.
Contact YoDAA (1800 458 684) is you wish to find a service near you.