Reaching and Treating Youth With Alcohol Related Problems: A Comprehensive Approach (From Youth and Alcohol Abuse: Readings and Resources, P (82)-92, 1986, Carla M Felsted, ed. -- See NCJ-117182)

• NCJ Number: 117189
• Author(s): J J Turanski
• Date Published: 1986
• Length: 11 pages
• Sale Source: Oryx Press
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article discusses how to reach youth with alcoholism treatment services, describes a comprehensive alcoholism treatment program, outlines the service components for such a program, and suggests aftercare.

Abstract

Since youth with alcohol-related problems are typically reluctant to seek help for their alcohol abuse, services should focus on those problems for which the adolescent will seek help, such as personal growth, educational and vocational development, recreation, and creative expression. Youth are more likely to participate in programs that are easily accessible, confidential, and available at convenient hours. The availability of a comprehensive range of services and activities is essential for effective treatment. A comprehensive approach includes intensive and long-term treatment, an indirect therapeutic strategy, an early intervention strategy, and a prevention strategy. Service components must encompass mental health services, physical health services, social services, career counseling services, alternative education activities, legal counseling services, youth awareness and life skills workshops, ethnic/cultural enrichment activities, creative and vocationally oriented training workshops, recreation and physical education activities, and youth work and leadership training activities. Treatment gains must be maintained through aftercare programs.