Proper aftercare to patients who have suffered alcohol intoxication helps to prevent recidivism. It is also necessary because over a third of the youngsters have underlying problems in the area of behavioural difficulties, issues with school and/or family, which require referral or brief intervention.
Outpatient Clinic for Youth & Alcohol
Headed by paediatrician Dr. Nico van der Lely and youth and child psychologist drs. Mireille de Visser, the first Outpatient Clinic for Youth & Alcohol in Delft has developed a protocol and aftercare programme for adolescents who have been hospitalised for alcohol intoxication. The protocol and aftercare programme was subsequently conducted in four pilot hospitals, where it was tested and examined for applicability (Hoorn, Leeuwarden, Eindhoven and Veldhoven). The main conclusion is that proper aftercare helps to prevent recidivism. From 2011 the protocol can be implemented in other Dutch hospitals.
The Early Identification of Alcohol Partnership
The Early Identification of Alcohol Partnership aspires to contribute to a reduction in harmful alcohol use. For vulnerable groups of underage drinkers, adults and the over 55s with alcohol problems, the Partnership promotes early identification and offers brief, effective interventions. By disseminating this approach, the Partnership supports government policy aimed at reducing harmful alcohol use among underage and problem drinkers. Early intervention can prevent alcoholism from taking hold as well as serious health effects.
The Outpatient Clinic for Youth & Alcohol is part of the Project 'Preventing harmful alcohol effects in young people' of the Reinier de Graaf Group. This project is being conducted in collaboration with the Early Identification of Alcohol Partnership (PVA).
More information: Anke Wammes
