Connect recognises that it’s important to address the needs of the whole person as an individual and that young people who are developing problems with drugs/alcohol cannot address the drug/alcohol use in isolation.
Interventions may be able to harness existing skills and support the young person to change, without the need for a formal treatment programme. These interventions are delivered through a range of methods, which allows the individual to explore the complexities of substance use and are co-coordinated and managed within the tiered approach adopted by Forth Valley Substance Action Team.
Connect's substance abuse services
Connect service fits into tier two by offering programme-based education and preventative work, group work, harm reduction and one-to-one counselling. This raises awareness of substance use issues and other related issues that young people may be experiencing, including education, training or offending behaviour.
Counselling incorporates relapse prevention, cognitive behavioural techniques, motivational interviewing and anxiety management. Through counselling the young person is able to define goals, gain an insight into their problems and develop problem solving skills. Furthermore it is a way of addressing individual issues, specific personal problems and enhancing self-esteem.
Through integrated/partnership working with Community Alcohol and Drugs Service and by linking into tier three, the decision to provide substitute prescription is made as part of a multi-disciplinary team approach, with full consideration of the implications for the young person being made.
Treatment is monitored carefully by the senior practitioner nurse within Connect and incorporates joint working with Social Work, pharmacies, non-statutory services, parents/carers and Progress2Work, when appropriate.