“AOD and mental health in young people”: An evidence-based resource package to assist workers in supporting young people.

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation have developed a resource designed to assist workers in talking with young people about alcohol and other drugs. Although this package was designed for general practitioners, these practical strategies are relevant for all workers who engage with young people.

We know that young people can be apprehensive to talk about their substance use for fear of judgment and distrust with confidentiality. This resource gives tips on being more responsive to the needs of young people by understanding the barriers to access a young person may experience. The resource also will help in recognising when a young person might have co-occurring mental health and AOD needs, understanding the function of AOD use in young people and how to build rapport through using non-stigmatising language and creating safe spaces.

Visit the ADF website to find these resources