Veterans' / Peacekeepers Alcohol & Drug Day Treatment & Rehabilitation Program

Substance abuse disorders are increasingly common among Veterans and defence personnel. These conditions have a profound effect on the health and quality of life of both the individual and their family.

The Veterans' Alcohol & Drug Day Treatment and Rehabilitation Program is a specialised day program for the treatment of Veterans and defence personnel with alcohol and drug abuse or dependence . Through the program, key issues are targeted to facilitate recovery, including:

Alcohol and drug abuse/dependence
Relapse prevention
Physical health
Depression and anxiety
Relationship difficulties
Anger management
Assertion skills

The specialist program team, led by Dr Andrew Khoo, Clinical Director Trauma and Related Disorders, provides a complete treatment program for individuals and their partners.

The program includes the following components:

Assessment

A comprehensive assessment is performed to identify individual needs and determine suitability to undertake the program.

Detoxification

The detoxification component is provided on an inpatient basis at Toowong Private Hospital. Participants are generally discharged from hospital prior to starting the day treatment sessions.

Primary Treatment Sessions

The primary treatment sessions of the program include group and one to one treatment. Participants attend these sessions during the day and return to their accommodation at the conclusion of each day's session.

Review & Subsequent Treatment Session

Following completion of the primary treatment sessions, a subsequent session is provided at 3 months to reinforce the skills and strategies learnt during the program and to enhance recovery and prevent relapse.

The program also includes special sessions for partners. The partner specific sessions include:

Alcohol and drug education
Relationship education

Eligibility

Ex-servicemen or current serving personnel, who are entitled under the requirements of the Commonwealth Department of Veterans' Affairs, may participate in the program once approval from the Department has been granted.