Look at these topics to learn more about the different strategies and approaches that the AOD sector uses these days to deal with the use and misuse of grog and drugs in society. | ||
The National Drug Strategy
This is the national framework that guides the work of government and non-government organisations that make up the AOD sector. For more information, visit: National Drug Strategy.
Harm minimisation
Harm minimisation focuses on reducing the harm caused by grog and drugs to individuals, communities and the whole of society.
This is an alternative to the prohibition approach that criminalises drugs and users. A harm minimisation approach:
- views addicts as patients
- provides treatment programs
- offers clean needle services
- advocates for the decriminalisation of drugs.
Early intervention
This AOD approach conducts brief assessments of grog and drug use and provides feedback on its consequences. This can be with a whole community, a particular group or an individual.
It can successfully change recreational behaviours, although often it is not successful for those with serious grog and drug use or dependency issues. Early intervention provides:
- screening leading to brief advice
- public awareness programs
- referral to specialists and counselling.
Health promotion
Health promotion programs and services help people change their lifestyles so they become more physically and mentally healthy.
Health promotion policies and programs:
- address inequalities in wealth and education
- promote healthy eating and exercise.
Community development
Community development services and programs:
- build individual and/or group skills so they can promote change in their own community
- provide training and funding so that local community members can become counsellors, healthcare workers, etc.
- assist community members to set up "drop in" centres, action groups, counselling services, etc.
Empowerment
An empowerment model provides communities with the skills, confidence and means to determine solutions to the issues affecting them.
Empowerment strategies include:
- community forums
- community policing schemes
- training AOD workers from the local community
- providing funding for community development programs.
Holistic and client-centred
Holistic approaches view the physical, mental and spiritual health of a client as closely related and equally important aspects of a treatment plan.
Holistic services for patients with serious grog and drug use or dependency issues address their physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing simultaneously.