LIFESTYLE

THE Association of Alcohol and other Drug Agencies NT (AADANT) acknowledges the importance of a diverse Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) sector and recognises the work services throughout the Northern Territory are doing to reduce harmful AOD use.

AADANT is the peak body for Non-Government Organisations (NGO) AOD treatment services in the NT ensuring the best people, resources and practice are brought together to deliver quality services for the Territory and the communities who need them.

This feature was put together to showcase the services who are working in your towns and what they can offer for people in your community who may be experiencing harmful substance use or know someone who is.

Government and NGO’s providing AOD treatment services offer many different programs and options to clients and their families. AADANT strives to achieve a sustainable and coherent alcohol and other drug sector that works for people who need it. This includes accessible and culturally appropriate services.

Every person’s recovery is going to be different from another; some shorter, some longer, some may need additional or ongoing support.

Treatment may include live-in rehabilitation programs, day programs or community-based counselling services. Some may want to reduce their use, but not stop entirely. Recovery-oriented practice acknowledges the individual’s unique path to recovery tailoring service to their needs regardless of financial, geographical or linguistic advantage or disadvantage.

Building trust and making connections in a non-judgemental environment sup- ports people to be active and equal participants in their treatment plan.

Treatment involving integrated and holistic care responses focuses on the person’s individual needs, not just their substance use.

A person may use multiple services and finding the right service is important to positive outcomes during their recovery. Treatment must be responsive to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and people from diverse cultural backgrounds, religions, communities, gender and sexual identities.

Promoting social and emotional wellbeing may look different to each person.

Recognising the positive impact of harm minimisation and acknowledging stages of change is an integral part of effective service delivery.

A confident and welltrained workforce can address the specific needs of young people, adults and older people, forensic clients, those with dual-diagnosis and complex needs, and vulnerable people to create a treatment plan best suited to those clients.

The importance of multiple, well-placed services with a diverse workforce and selection of treatment programs cannot be underestimated.