Young people in Albury Wodonga and surrounds struggling with addictive behaviours, including alcohol and other drug use, now have access to a transformative new program. Youth SMART Recovery, an evidence-based group initiative delivered by headspace Albury Wodonga and lead agency Gateway Health, will launch on Wednesday, 12 February, offering a practical and engaging pathway to support young people aged 16-22 to take back control of their lives.
Youth SMART Recovery provides a safe and non-judgmental space where participants can connect with peers who understand their challenges and are committed to making meaningful changes. The program focuses on addressing a wide range of behaviours, from managing substance misuse to discussing and creating healthier coping mechanisms for other potentially addictive behaviours, such as gambling or gaming.
The sessions run weekly and are facilitated by clinicians specialising in addiction and mental health. The sessions are driven by evidence-based principles shown to be effective for young people to support in managing addictive behaviours. Core topics include managing urges and cravings, building motivation and confidence, setting achievable goals, and, developing strategies for long-term success.
Recent research highlights the importance of mutual-support programs like SMART Recovery in helping individuals develop self-management tools and build resilience. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that 24% of Australians aged 14-24 have engaged in illicit drug use within the past year, and studies published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment confirm the value of programs like SMART Recovery in addressing these challenges.
“Addiction in any form should not define a person. Youth SMART Recovery is about working with young people to learn practical tools to create the future they want,” said Jessee. “This program is a safe space for an open conversation, it isn’t about telling anyone what to do, it’s about helping young people discover their own strengths and supporting them to make better decisions,” Dual Diagnosis Clinician, headspace Albury Wodonga, Jessee Williams said.
Program Details
When: Wednesdays, starting February 12, weekly sessions (4pm – 5.30pm)
Where: Gateway Health Building, Room G10, 155 High Street, Wodonga
Cost: Free
Young people interested in participating can fill out a simple registration form to express their interest. All inquiries and sessions are confidential.
For more information or to register, contact headspace Albury Wodonga on 1300 322 022 or fill out the form here.
About headspace
headspace is the National Youth Mental Health Foundation providing early intervention mental health services to 12-25 year olds. headspace has over 150 centres across Australia in metropolitan, regional and remote areas, as well as online and phone support services through eheadspace. headspace Albury Wodonga is operated by Gateway Health. All headspace services are funded by the Australian Government Department of Health. Administration of funding is carried out by the headspace centre’s local Primary Health Network, in this case, Murray PHN. For more information head to www.headspace.org.au/albury-wodonga
