Many young Australians aged 12-17 years frequently consume alcohol, with many engaging in regular risky drinking practices[1]. In 2022-23, it was also reported that one out of every five individuals aged 18-24 years were using e-cigarettes, a notable increase from one in 20 individuals in 2019[2].
Alcohol and other drug (AOD) dependence can stem from multiple personal factors and intricate underlying experiences or conditions. Misuse of AOD can result in illness, injuries from intoxication, brain damage and respiratory issues. The harm caused by an AOD dependency doesn’t just affect the individual but can also create significant challenges for their family, friends and the wider community.
People often turn to AOD to help manage mental health challenges, but relying on these substances can also have a negative impact on their mental health. Despite the close connection, young people often face challenges in accessing support for both AOD and mental health concerns.
headfyrst
headfyrst YouthLink is a program we commission in Western Sydney, run by Salvation Army Youthlink and select headspace youth mental health centres. It supports people aged 12-25 years access AOD and mental health services. The program works to remove barriers for young people and address gaps in services by providing secure, confidential and personalised care. It offers free resources for AOD concerns and mental health counselling, supporting young people and their families on their path to recovery.
The Western Sydney headfyrst centres are based in Castle Hill, Parramatta and Mount Druitt – areas of high youth populations. The staff at these centres support their clients to build on their strengths to enhance their health, wellbeing, independence and social skills needed to live a meaningful life. headfyrst also works in collaboration with other organisations, including mental health teams and early intervention and recovery services.
If any of your patients can benefit from this service, more information and referral forms can be found online.
WentWest Stories
The WentWest Stories project aims to highlight the vital work of our communities and primary care providers in addressing the health priorities in our region. The following WentWest Stories describe the real experiences clients have had at headfyrst:
AOD Resources for GPs
‘Living with Alcohol Dependency’ is a series of videos featuring Western Sydney community members who have experienced AOD challenges. They share their experiences about receiving treatment, lifestyle changes they have made and advice about staying alcohol-free. The videos – Western Sydney Stories and Aboriginal Stories are available on our YouTube channel. GPs can also access, view and share the videos with patients via GoShare.
‘Getting Help with Alcohol and Other Drug Dependence’ is an animated video designed to help community members find their way from AOD dependence toward a happy and healthy future. The video is available in English, Arabic, Dari, Farsi and Tamil. These videos are also available on GoShare for GPs to view and share.
For access to GoShare, please visit HealthPathways or contact our HealthPathways team at healthpathways@wentwest.com.au
There are also AOD resources and clinical information available to health care providers through Western Sydney HealthPathways:
If you require the log in details to HealthPathways, please contact our HealthPathways team at healthpathways@wentwest.com.au
This information is correct as of 29 August 2024.
[1] National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (2016), Alcohol and young people. Available at: https://ndarc.med.unsw.edu.au/sites/default/files/ndarc/resources/NDA073%20Fact%20Sheet%20Alcohol%20and%20Young%20People_0.pdf
[2] Tobacco in Australia (2024), Prevalence of e-cigarette use. Available at: https://www.tobaccoinaustralia.org.au/chapter-18-e-cigarettes/18-3-legal