AOD SUCCESS STORY

“We are a part of your family… When you need us, we are here to help you as a family member.”

A42 years old male Aboriginal client, referred himself to DAS services after relocating to Coober Pedy. Client mentioned to AOD social workers that, he needs help with his alcohol and other drug issues. Client was enrolled inAOD services and counselling sessions. After building a rapport with AOD social workers, the client explained that he was working in in another state and stayed there with his children and partner but now he has separated from his partner. He was going through a tough time after losing his family and job. It was more stressful to him and he started smoking cannabis and drinking alcohol in excessive amounts.

AOD social workers started having one to one weekly sessions with him, inclusive Motivational Interviewing, Brief interventions, and counselling sessions. AOD Social workers referred him to Mental Health and Social and Emotional wellbeing services as well at DAS program coordinators. Meanwhile, the client has actively participated to men’s groups such as music programs and healthy cooking programs.

The social workers were able to get a referral to the client to attend Psychiatrist and Psychologist appointments.After attending those sessions and social workers one to one sessions, client started finding his way and started thinking positively.

After successfully reaching his weekly goals,AOD social workers suggested to him he could go to a rehabilitation centre to encourage him to start a new career. The client agreed andAOD Social workers sent a referral to Rehabilitation centre, in time the Client’s referral was approved. UTHS management assisted to arrange bus ticket and other relevant items including medication, blankets, pillows, pillow cases, bedsheets, clothes, shoes etc. for the client.

That assistance was highly appreciated by the client and his morale was very high when he left Coober Pedy. He stated that he was feeling very proud about himself and the decision he made to go to the rehabilitation centre. During the time he spent in there, AOD social workers kept in touch with the client and the staff who were working closely with the client.

Client was able to successfully complete 12 weeks at rehabilitation centre. Pleased with his progress he extended his rehabilitation program for 3 more weeks.

After finishing his rehab program, client returned back to Coober Pedy. He looked totally different personality, he looked healthy than before and his attitudes towards his own life was more positive and improved. AOD social workers have since been able to assist him with getting a job and apply for his own accommodation.

The client andAOD Social Workers efforts and achievement set a good example for community as well cause to motivate others who are looking changing their lives. Social workers are here to help all current clients in need of assistance and welcome any new clients that come to seek services.

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