Alcohol and Other Drugs
Young people who are homeless commonly experience issues related to substance abuse. This may be due to stress, poor role modelling, being part of a sub-culture or other reasons. It is also not uncommon for young people to experience both substance abuse issues mental health and issues at the same time, commonly referred to as dual diagnosis.
Here you will find links to information about common substances as well as information and resources about programs and services you may wish to refer young people to.
Youth Substance Abuse Service
YSAS is a state wide organisation that works to improve the health and wellbeing of young people affected by the use of alcohol and other drugs, through direct care, workforce development and public policy advocacy. Its programs and services include:
- community programs (including youth outreach)
- residential services
- day programs
- specialist programs
- education and research
Contact YSASline if you or someone you know has a problem with alcohol and or other drug use. This 24-hour telephone service provides information and referral to YSAS services and to youth-specific alcohol and drug services throughout Victoria.
YSASline 1800 014 446 (24 hour toll free service).
Drug Info Clearinghouse
The DrugInfo Clearinghouse is a service of the Australian Drug Foundation www.adf.org.au. It provides easy access to information about alcohol and other drugs and drug prevention.
You can search by 'drug' or by 'people' eg. young people. You will also find information and resources about dual diagnosis - a term used when a person has both an alcohol and drug issue and a mental illness.
Alateen is a recovery program for young people that provides support for teenagers affected by the problem drinking of a parent or other family member. Alateen groups are sponsored by Al-Anon members www.aa.org.au
