An approach to adolescent drug use
Kang, M.
Australian Family Physician 31(1): 12-17
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 0300-8495 PMID: 11840878 Document Number: 546376
Local organizations can put you into contact with specialist centres and other resources in your area. Substance abuse is one of the most challenging and emotionally charged areas of general practice as it is in society at large. When this is combined with some of the difficulties in engaging the adolescent patient, it is not uncommon for the general practitioner to feel overwhelmed and unsure about how to approach the issue. This article discusses strategies for GPs in managing adolescent patients with substance abuse, including referral services and opportunities for collaboration and a team approach. While there are good reasons to be concerned about substance abuse among adolescents and uncertainty about where to turn for specialised help, there is much the GP can do alone, and in collaboration with other services, to care for the adolescent with a substance use issue.