YOUTH DUAL DIAGNOSIS SUPPORT PROGRAM

This program supports young people who have substance abuse and mental health problems (known as "dual diagnosis").

The term "dual diagnosis" or "co-morbidity" is used to identify people who have problematic substance use and at the same time a mental health problem. The problems associated with each condition on their own is overshadowed when they co-exist. This interaction can lead to significant social problems; difficulties with daily living activities, worsening of mental and physical health; strained family relationships; homelessness; poor motivation; loss of support networks; and legal and financial difficulties.

Who?
Clients are aged 12 to 25, and for a variety of reasons often find it difficult to access the mainstream psychiatric, alcohol or drug services. Clients can be referred from a range of sources, including health, welfare, community organizations, youth organisations & networks, or they or their families/friends may self-refer.

Clients should phone our Receptionist/ Advice Worker on (07) 5535 4302 to make enquiries about accessing the service.

How?
A clinician will conduct an initial and comprehensive assessment of the client's level of problematic drug use and their current mental state. The client will then be formally assessed by a Specialist, to prescribe medication if needed. The clinician will often work with other agencies relevant to the clients needs to develop an individual treatment plan e,g, mental health services; youth services, General Practitioners etc.

As part of treatment planning, clients may also receive a tailored program of psycho-education and training in relapse prevention techniques.

Sometimes another agency will retain the primary case management of the client, with the Youth Dual Diagnosis Support Program contributing to the delivery of the treatment plan

Where?
The Youth Dual Diagnosis Support Program is based at the Gold Coast Drug Council, 191 West Burleigh Road, Burleigh Heads, Qld. Outreach services are also available.

Cost?
This program, free of charge to clients, is funded by the Australian Department of Health & Ageing as part of the National Illicit Drug Strategy (NIDS).