Family, Community and Cultural Approaches
Treatment should consider available strengths in the individual, family or community. Sometimes individuals may be able to access the support of Elders in their efforts to change their drinking. If the individual lives with a relative or partner who drinks, consider assessing the need for treatment for that person.
A wide range of cultural approaches have been used by Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander agencies or communities, including men’s or women’s groups, cultural enhancement, and returning to country. Activities that are meaningful and promote connectedness to (non-drinking) community members and family may help reduce drinking or support abstinence.
| Chapter |
Recommendation |
Grade of recommendation |
| 15.19 |
Patients should be able to choose from available alcohol treatment services, whether that be mainstream, Indigenous-specific or a shared-care approach. |
GPP |
| 15.20 |
Consider the need to offer treatment to any drinking partner or close family member. |
GPP |
| 15.21 |
Explore family, community, or cultural sources of strength and support that may help patients to change their drinking or maintain change. This includes men’s groups and women’s groups and alternative activities. |
GPP |