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Addressing adolescent substance use in a paediatric health‐care setting
Author(s) -
Phillips Natalie Lynette,
Milne Bronwyn,
Silsbury Catherine,
Zappia Popi,
Zehetner Anthony,
Klineberg Emily,
Towns Susan,
Steinbeck Katharine
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
journal of paediatrics and child health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.631
H-Index - 76
eISSN - 1440-1754
pISSN - 1034-4810
DOI - 10.1111/jpc.12622
Subject(s) - medicine , polysubstance dependence , psychiatry , cannabis , mental health , intervention (counseling) , mood , poison control , substance abuse , family medicine , medical emergency
Aim The aim of this study is to review the operation of a specialist adolescent drug and alcohol consultation liaison service in a tertiary paediatric hospital. Method A retrospective review of patient records was conducted to identify patient characteristics and assess service utilisation. Results Two hundred adolescents were referred over 4 years. Most presented during mid‐adolescence (14–16 years). Alcohol, cannabis and nicotine were the most frequently reported substances, and almost half of referrals involved polysubstance use. Mental health diagnoses and behavioural problems were commonly reported. Almost two‐thirds (63.5%) attended an appointment for drug and alcohol assessment and intervention ( n = 92) or were referred to appropriate services ( n = 35). Adolescents more likely to engage and attend an appointment with the specialist adolescent addiction medicine service included those with amphetamine use, polysubstance use, chronic illness, any mental health diagnosis and mood disorder. I ndigenous A ustralians and those with a history of aggression were more difficult to engage. Conclusions Adolescents present to paediatric health settings with drug‐ and alcohol‐related issues, including associated harms. These comprise, but are not limited to, physical and sexual assault, family conflict, mood and behavioural concerns (including psychosis), and forensic issues. Early intervention aims to reduce long‐term risks such as dependence in adulthood. Specialist adolescent drug and alcohol services may assist in identifying and engaging these high‐risk and often complex young people in developmentally appropriate treatment.