Y-Effect program launched

Helping young people

The theme of the 2010 National Youth Week was "Live it Now". One full of promise - just what one would want for young people as they transition from being teenagers to adults.

At the South West Community Drug Service Team, we meet many young people. They don't all come willingly to start with – the courts can order attendance at counselling, and others come reluctantly at the insistence of their parents.

No matter how they come, the one thing they all have in common is problems in their lives related to use of alcohol or other drugs. Some young people see drug use as a problem, while others do not and they leave their parents, family, school and community to worry about their behaviours and choices and the impact on their future. Many of the problems that the young people present with are from their alcohol use and behaviours that result from this - fights, drink driving, being rowdy, car accidents, falls. Cannabis and amphetamines use are problematic for young people as well. Our work with young people involves listening to their story and helping them to work out how to reduce their risks to health and safety.

We provide good information, respect, and support. Families can be involved in this process if the young person would like this to happen. The service is free and covers the South West. If you would like to talk to one of our workers about your own issues or about someone in your family, all you have to do is make an appointment.

An exciting new program is being offered in conjunction with Jobs South West. Called Y-Effect, the program aims to help 13-17 year-olds manage issues related to alcohol and other drug use by building self esteem, increasing self worth, and job training. This program will run for eight weeks and will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays - telephone the Team if you are interested – 08 9721 9256.