watershed.org.au

Workplace Assistance FAQ’S

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 02:25:05 +0000

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WORKPLACE ASSISTANCE

Q: How can Watershed assist me as an employer?
A: Watershed offers a full range of services to employers . These services include assessment of workplace drug and alcohol policies and procedures, assistance with workplace drug and alcohol policy development, drug and alcohol education for staff and managers/supervisors and individual counselling services. Watershed provides a full range of employee assistance services specialising in the field of drug and alcohol.

Q: What are the benefits to employers?
A: Watershed is a not-for-profit, non-government organisation and as such all profits are returned to the community through the services that we provide. As a specialist in the field of drug and alcohol services, employers are supported by an experienced and quality accredited team.

Q: How can Watershed assist me as an employee?
A: Watershed provides a full range of services from individual counselling to participation in our day programs, to assessment and admission into our withdrawal management and rehabilitation programs, if required.

Rehab FAQ’S

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 02:23:27 +0000

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

REHABILITATION

Q: What is the length of time that I will be in treatment at Watershed?
A: Residents entering treatment at Watershed Drug & Alcohol Recovery & Education Centre can be admitted for periods between 5 days and 12 months. The detoxification program lasts between 5 and 14 days. The residential rehabilitation program lasts for 4 week and clients are then able to transition to the Halfway House supported accomodation facility for up to 6-9 months.

Q: What happens in a residential rehabilitation program and how does it work?
A: Residential rehabilitation involves living at a facility to receive treatment for drug or alcohol dependence, usually after a period of detoxification. Research shows that the longer a person remains in rehabilitation, the better their chances of remaining abstinent in the long term. At Watershed, residents live together in a small, highly structured “therapeutic community” with a supportive team of professional counsellors and staff. Watershed treats the misuse of alcohol and other drugs as symptomatic of underlying personal problems. These problems must be addressed to successfully overcome dependence in the long term. Clients work to change any negative attitudes and values, confront the reasons why they resorted to drug misuse and learn strategies for dealing with the ups and downs of daily life.

Q: What kind of program is best for me?
A: A variety of options exist and you can choose the best one for you. A brief episode of withdrawal followed by counselling might be the best option for one person. Another may need longer withdrawal, a few months in residential rehabilitation, assistance with employment, training or education and accommodation support. Someone else may be best suited to supported accommodation, participation in a self help group and longer term family counselling.

Q: What do I need to know about addiction treatment?
A: Addiction is a two-headed disease, one that exists in both physical and psychological dimensions. Successful addiction treatment, it follows, is that which delivers both physical and psychological therapy to recovering addicts. Anything else would only amount to an incomplete solution, and, again, there is no such thing as a halfway addiction cure. Upon entering an addiction treatment center, many patients experience up to a week of drug withdrawal: a period in which their bodies shake the physical dependencies associated with drug addiction. Because chronic drug abuse warps an addict’s internal chemistry, the first phase of recovery is often a physically trying one. With that in my mind, doctors and caregivers in drug detox facilities use advanced medical treatments to help patients navigate the straits of withdrawal, ultimately aiming to ensure that the initial phase of addiction treatment is no more uncomfortable than it absolutely has to be. Of course, that initial phase is hardly the end of the story. Again, addiction operates through both physical and psychological mechanisms, and no addiction treatment program is complete if it fails to address its patients’ mental health. Effective addiction treatment programs work because they impart those emotional skills that are vital to a patient’s long-term recovery: the centered strength that allows recovering addicts to face the real world without leaning on their drug habits for chemical support. Only then, when they’ve learned to be at peace in their own skin, are addiction treatment patients ready for the rigors of independent living.

Q: What determines the success of an addiction treatment program?
A: It’s important here to distinguish what exactly qualifies as a “successful” addiction treatment program. Addiction treatment, at its heart, is a lifetime proposition. Strictly speaking, there is no final “cure” for alcoholism and drug abuse; addiction never really goes away, and addicts continue to grapple with their demons long after they’ve checked out of an addiction treatment facility. Intensive physical and psychological addiction treatment is essential, in other words…but it isn’t sufficient to long-term addiction recovery. On the contrary, the most successful addiction treatment programs are those that meet the big-picture treatment needs of their patient. Because addiction recovery is a lifelong process, addiction treatment does not and cannot end after a patient’s initial month at an addiction treatment center. Indeed, only with access to aftercare addiction treatment options and independent addiction treatment support groups can an addiction treatment patient reasonably expect to sustain the gains he made in his first thirty days of sobriety. Of course, aftercare addiction treatment options and independent addiction treatment support groups are hardly within the realm of a recovering drug addict’s expertise, and that’s why it’s vital that you find an addiction treatment facility which can provide for your long-term needs. Addiction treatment is too hard to do on your own; you need help, and you need it from people who know what they’re doing. A successful addiction treatment program is successful both because of the effort its patients put into their recovery and because of the knowledge its caregivers bring to their work. If you want to get better, in other words, you’ve got to work for it, but you’ve also got to entrust your care to an addiction treatment center with a proven track of record success.

Q: How long is the program?
A: The full program is 4 weeks duration plus the detoxification period if applicable (usually 1-2 weeks depending on what a client is withdrawing from).

Q: How do I get into the program?
A: Clients must firstly personally call the Watershed to undertake a phone assessment. All clients are assessed individually to determine the program’s suitability in meeting their needs. Some clients may be referred to a more suitable treatment option. Clients are then placed on a waiting list whilst any necessary reports (eg. medication proformas, psychological reports) are sought. After all necessary reports are obtained clients are offered the next available bed. Face to face assessments are sometimes necessary and clients would be informed if this needed to occur prior to admission.

Q: How long does it take to get into the program?
A: Waiting list times vary due to the availability of beds and the reciept of medical/psychological and other assessment reports. Waiting times vary for each cient, however, Watershed staff make every effort to minimise client waiting times.

Q: Are there any upfront costs?
A: If you are receiving centrelink benefits there are no upfront costs required. Watershed becomes the nominee of your centrelink benefit for the duration of your stay. When you leave any monies owing to you are transferred back into your nominated bank account. Any monies you owe us are deducted from your next payment. If you are not receiving centrelink benefits you can arrange payment details/structure with staff prior to your admission.

Q: What are the costs involved?
A: 15-17 years of age – $168 per week. 18-21 years of age – $196 per week. 21 years+ – $224 per week. Note: This does not cover costs such as medication, phone calls, and other personal needs.

Q: Does Watershed accept people on medications?
A: Watershed does accept residents that have pre-existing medication requirements. All medications are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Q: Can I change/cease my medication (not withdrawal medication) whilst in the program?
A: Usually the answer is No. It is preferable to see to your Doctor about changing any medications prior to admission and you must be stable on medications that have been changed.

Q: What if I have court to attend whilst in the program?
A: Clients are encouraged to have all court matters adjourned whilst in the program. Clients will not be permitted to take day leave for court purposes.

Q: What personal items do I need to bring?
A: Clients need only to bring a medium size bag of clothing only. Other personal items such as soap, shampoo etc. can be supplied. All food (including tea/coffee) is supplied. Clients will not be permitted to bring in their own food. Arrangements are made by staff for clients with special dietary considerations.

Q: Can I bring my mobile phone/Ipod/mp3 player or laptop?
A: No

Q: Is there a dress code?
A: Yes. Because proper dress and respect for oneself is an important aspect of recovery, we require all of our residents to abide by our dress code.

Q: Can I make phone calls during my stay?
A: Clients are allowed one personal phone call per week. An additional phone call is permitted for clients with dependent children under 18 years of age. Clients are permitted to make other phone calls in conjunction with their caseworker to arrange aftercare options or personal needs. Family and friends are able to call and leave messages for clients but they cannot call and speak to them directly.

Q: Can I write/receive letters during my stay?
A: Yes. Clients are encouraged to write and receive letters from friends and family throughout the program.

Q: Can I leave the grounds whilst undertaking the program?
A: No. The program is strictly residential and clients are not permitted to leave the grounds without supervision under any circumstances.

Q: Can I get overnight or day leave?
A: No. Leave is not permitted

Q: Can I have visitors?
A: No family/friend visits are allowed during your stay at the Watershed, as we find that clients find it easier to focus on their recovery without visits. However, you may be allowed a visit from your caseworker/youth worker/aboriginal health worker/religious officer if it is therapeutically useful. This has to be negotiated with your caseworker.

Q: Can I have a car while in treatment?
A: No. Clients participating in the residential rehabilitation program are not permitted to have a car.

Q: Will I have my own bedroom?
A: Clients usually share rooms with other clients. This helps to orientate the person to the program, and improve social interaction.

Q: Am I able to work whilst in the program?
A: No. The program is strictly residential and clients are not permitted to leave the premises for any purpose. Clients would need to make alternate arrangements (eg. annual/sick leave) with any employer prior to admission.

Q: Can I make appointments for when I leave program?
A: Yes. Clients are encouraged to put arrangements in place for appointments to take place upon leaving the program.

Mental Health FAQ’S

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 02:21:28 +0000

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

MENTAL HEALTH

Q: What if I have a mental illness? Can I still be admitted?
A: Clients living with mental illness are able to be admitted to the program. Staff are trained in mental illness in addition to drug and alcohol issues. However, it is important to note that all clients are assessed individually to determine the program’s suitability in meeting their needs. Some clients may be referred to a more suitable treatment option.

Q: Does the Watershed accept clients on medication?
A: Clients taking medications (including most mental health medications) are able to be admitted to the program. However, all clients are assessed individually to determine the program’s suitability in meeting their needs. Some clients may be referred to a more suitable treatment option.

Q: What is a mental illness?
A: A mental illness is a health problem that significantly affects how a person feels, thinks, behaves, and interacts with other people. It is diagnosed according to standardised criteria. The term mental disorder is also used to refer to these health problems.

Q: Are mental illnesses a form of intellectual disability or brain damage?
A: No. They are illnesses just like any other, such as heart disease, diabetes, and asthma. Yet the traditions of sympathy, support, and flowers given to people with physical illnesses are often denied to those with a mental illness.

Q: Are mental illnesses incurable and lifelong?
A: No. When treated appropriately and early, many people recover fully and have no further episodes of illness. For others, mental illness may recur throughout their lives and require ongoing treatment. This is the same as many physical illnesses, such as diabetes and heart disease. Like these other long-term health conditions, mental illness can be managed so that individuals live life to the fullest.

Q: Are people born with a mental illness?
A: No. A vulnerability to some mental illnesses, such as bipolar mood disorder, can run in families. But other people develop mental illness with no family history. Many factors contribute to the onset of a mental illness. These include stress, bereavement, relationship breakdown, physical and sexual abuse, unemployment, social isolation, and major physical illness or disability. Our understanding of the causes of mental illness is growing.

Q: Can anyone develop a mental illness?
A: Yes. In fact, as many as one in five Australians may develop a mental illness at some stage in their lives. Everyone is vulnerable to mental health problems. Many people feel more comfortable with the notion of having ‘a nervous breakdown’ rather than a mental illness. However, it is important to talk openly about mental illness, as this reduces the stigma and helps people to seek early treatment.

Q: Are people with mental illness usually dangerous?
A: No. This false perception underlies some of the most damaging stereotypes. People with a mental illness are seldom dangerous. Even people with the most severe mental illness are rarely dangerous when receiving appropriate treatment and support.

Q: Should people with a mental illness be isolated from the community?
A: No. Most people with a mental illness recover quickly and do not even need hospital care. Others have short admissions to hospital for treatment. Improvements in treatment over recent decades mean that most people live in their communities, and there is no need for the confinement and isolation that was commonly used in the past. A very small number of people with mental illness need hospital care, sometimes against their will. Improvements in treatment are making this less and less common, and fewer than one in a 1000 people are treated this way.

Q: Is stigma one of the biggest problems for people with mental illness?
A: Yes. One of the biggest obstacles for people recovering from mental illness is confronting the negative attitudes of other people. These often mean that people with mental illness face isolation and discrimination just for having an illness. Positive and hopeful attitudes of family, friends, service providers, employers, and other members of the community toward people with mental illness are critical to ensuring quality of life for people with mental illness and supporting recovery the signs and symptoms of different types of mental illness.

Q: What is Dual Diagnosis?
A: The term ‘dual diagnosis’ (also referred to as comordity) refers to when substance abuse or dependency is diagnosed alongside a mental illness. Two common examples are that of major depression with marijuana addiction, and alcohol addiction with panic disorder. Often the two disorders are treated separately or people may only be referred to one specialist, either in the mental health service or the addiction recovery service. Considering the large numbers of people affected by dual diagnosis it may be more effective to treat people using a more integrated approach i.e. whereby people receive treatment for both disorders at the same time.

Q: What are the symptoms of Dual Diagnosis?
A: The symptoms that a person with dual diagnosis displays are identified in two parts which sometimes makes it common for one diagnosis to be missed. First are the symptoms associated with any major psychiatric disorder, such as schizophrenia, bipolar mood disorder, or personality disorder (the Mental Health Information Service has fact sheets on all of these). Second are the issues associated with abuse of alcohol and other drugs.

Q: What is the impact of Dual Diagnosis?
A: The impact of having not one but two diagnoses means that a person often experiences more severe and chronic medical, social and emotional problems than if they were to have just one. They are vulnerable not only to an alcohol and/or drug relapse but also a relapse of their mental health problems. The occurrence of either of these is likely to affect the other in a negative way. Treatment and relapse prevention must therefore be specifically catered to the person, and will often take longer, come across more obstacles, and progress only gradually.

Q: What kind of treatment is available for Dual Diagnosis?
A: Our present mental health service has evolved to address single disorders. However many treatments for specific illnesses can be adapted to address other problems. Treatment for people with dual diagnosis may be more effective if the two diagnoses are dealt with at the same time as the two are often related (e.g. drug use to cope with symptoms of mental disorder). It has been recommended that during treatment administration, both conditions need to be regarded as primary, without one being seen as the cause of the other.

Drug Use FAQ’S

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 02:19:52 +0000

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

DRUG USE

Q: What is a drug?
A: A drug is any substance (with the exception of food and water) which, when taken into the body, alters the body’s function either physically and/or psychologically. Drugs may be legal (e.g. alcohol, caffeine and tobacco) or illegal (e.g. cannabis, ecstasy, cocaine and heroin).

Q: What is a psychoactive drug?
A: Psychoactive drugs affect the central nervous system and alter a person’s mood, thinking and behaviour. Psychoactive drugs may be divided into four categories: Depressants: Drugs that decrease alertness by slowing down the activity of the central nervous system (e.g. heroin, alcohol and analgesics); Stimulants: Drugs that increase the body’s state of arousal by increasing the activity of the brain (e.g. caffeine, nicotine and amphetamines); Hallucinogens: Drugs that alter perception and can cause hallucinations, such as seeing or hearing something that is not there (e.g. LSD and ‘magic mushrooms’); and Other: Some drugs fall into the ‘other’ category, as they may have properties of more than one of the above categories (e.g. cannabis has depressive, hallucinogenic and some stimulant properties).

Q: When is it an addiction?
A: Using drugs or other substances becomes abusive and is categorized as a “disorder” when the use begins to cause continuing or growing problems in the user’s life. The problems that the addict encounters include missing work or school, driving under the influence, legal problems and problems with friends or family relationships. Addiction or dependency usually becomes noticeable in substance abusers when they continue their pattern of drug use in spite of suffering significant problems in their lives. Substance abuse can cause problems for individuals whether they are technically addicted or not. There are different levels of substance abuse, and all of them can be dangerous.

Q: Do I really need professional addiction treatment to overcome my drug addiction?
A: Everyone needs professional addiction treatment to overcome a drug addiction. There’s no other way to way to get better. Many drug addicts and alcoholics make the mistake of believing that they kick their habits whenever they want to: that they can stop using drugs or alcohol through a simple act of will, at a moment of their choosing. Unfortunately, they are wrong. Professional alcohol and drug addiction treatment confronts addiction as it actually is: as a clinical disease with very real clinical roots. Those who believe that they can heal themselves through willpower, misconstrue the nature of addiction itself. As is true of any disease, addiction can only be overcome with intensive medical care. For example, no cancer patient believes that he can beat cancer simply by choosing to do so. Of course, the decision to seek professional help is often an exceedingly difficult one to make. Admitting yourself to a rehabilitation treatment center means facing an unpleasant truth: that you have a problem, and that you don’t have the ability to solve it by yourself.

Q: What’s the difference between casual drug use and hardcore drug addiction?
A: In plain terms, there is no such thing as a “casual” drug habit. Repetitive drug users, no matter how firmly they believe otherwise, are never in control of their drug use. Repetitive drug use is predicated on need, and need is a thing that can’t be governed by anything we might understand as individual will. What that means, in the most general sense, is that every repetitive drug user is a prospective addiction treatment patient. From a practical perspective, addiction treatment must combat the joint causes of drug and alcohol addiction.

Q: What can I do to help someone I know who has a drug or alcohol problem?
A: It is very difficult as you are probably already aware to make someone else see that they have a drug or alcohol problem. Speaking to them about it (especially when they are drug or alcohol affected) can be frustrating and pointless. They may become angry, defensive, upset or distant. Unless a person acknowledges that they have a problem and expresses the desire to do something about it, you have very few options. The first priority is to take care of yourself. A person with drug or alcohol dependency can take others down with them, even though they may have no idea they are doing it. If you are going to be of any help at all you must prioritise your own health and well being. A number of groups and organisations offer support for people affected by the drug or alcohol dependence of a loved one. Whether this person is you child, your partner, your friend, your parent or your colleague, you cannot make them change their behaviour. By accessing support you will be able to find many strategies for positively influencing them, taking care of yourself, setting up boundaries and being well informed.

Q: How do I know if I need help?
A: If you have tried to cut down but have been unable to do so, you probably need assistance. If your drug use is creating problems in your life and you feel afraid, out of control, unable to live without your drug, or generally depressed it would be helpful to find people who can support you. It is important to be aware that drug and alcohol dependence is very difficult to overcome. It can also be very dangerous to do alone. Unsupervised withdrawal from heavy, sustained alcohol dependence, for example, can be lethal. Call Watershed and talk to one of our friendly and experienced staff.

Q: What are the signs that drug or alcohol use is problematic?
A: There are many signs that alcohol or drug use may have become problematic or that a dependence – psychological, physical or both has developed. A series of questions is available on www.intheknowzone.com provides some indicators for people considering their drinking or drug use. Not everyone who has a drug or alcohol problem will exhibit all of these indicators but it is most likely they will have experienced one or many of the behaviours described.

Q: What is alcohol dependence?
A: People who regularly drink to excess may become physically and/or psychologically dependent on alcohol. They may find alcohol becomes more important than other aspects of their lives, or their body gets so used to functioning with alcohol that they cannot do without it. It can range from mild dependency to compulsive drinking or alcoholism.

Q: What harmful effects can alcohol have on health?
A: Long-term alcohol consumption at harmful or hazardous levels can damage many parts of the body, including the liver, pancreas, stomach, esophagus, and brain; memory problems and behavioural changes are often some of the first signs of serious alcohol dependence, along with the effects of poor nutrition caused by excessive drinking. Emotional difficulties, anxiety and depression have also been linked with heavy drinking, although it is not always clear whether alcohol misuse is the cause and/or the consequence of mental health problems. Binge drinking can result in acute intoxication, not only putting the person’s health at risk, but also potentially leading them to engage in dangerous behaviours that may harm themselves and others. Alcohol poisoning can cause liver failure, brain damage, coma or death.

Aftercare FAQ’S

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 02:17:05 +0000

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

AFTERCARE

Q: What follow up support is available for me when I leave?
A: We have an aftercare program in the community where you can access additional support such as therapeutic groups as well as the Carinya Halfway House supported accommodation program. We can also help you organise long term rehabilitation and will consider extending your stay, a little, at Watershed until a bed is available.

Q: Can I make appointments for when I leave program?
A: Yes. Clients are encouraged to put arrangements in place for support arrangements and appointments to take place upon leaving the program.

CARINYA HALFWAY HOUSE SUPPORTED ACCOMODATION PROGRAM
Q: How long does the Carinya Halfway House supported accomodation program go for?
A: The Carinya Halfway House supported accommodation program usually lasts up to 6-9 months depending on the needs of the client.

Q: How do I get into the program?
A: There are two pathways into Carinya Halfway House. The first is direct referral from Watershed and the second is self referral whilst in another residental service. Clients must complete the residential program they are in and then complete a commitment phase at Watershed prior to entering the Carinya program. Clients must firstly personally call the Watershed to undertake a phone assessment. If clients meet the criteria for admission into the program they are placed on a waiting list whilst any necessary reports (eg. medication proformas, psychological reports) are sought. After all necessary reports are obtained clients are offered the next available bed in the Watershed Residential Rehabilitation program. Face to face assessments are sometimes necessary and clients would be informed if this needed to occur prior to admission. Clients spend a week in the Watershed Residential Rehabilitation program prior to moving to the Carinya Halfway House.

Q: How long does it take to get into the program?
A: Waiting list times vary due to the availability of beds and the reciept of medical/psychological and other assessment reports. Waiting times vary for each cient, however, Watershed staff make every effort to minimise client waiting times.

Q: Are there any upfront costs?
A: If you are receiving centrelink benefits there are no upfront costs required. Watershed becomes the nominee for your centrelink benefits for the duration of your stay. When you leave any monies owing to you are transferred back into your nominated bank account. Any monies you owe us are deducted from your next payment. If you are not receiving centrelink benefits you can arrange payment details/structure with staff prior to your admission.

Q: What are the costs involved?
A: $154 rent per week. Note: This does not cover costs such as medication, phone calls, and other personal needs. Clients are allocated a weekly personal allowance in addition to their rent each week.

Q: Does Watershed accept people on medications?
A: Watershed does accept residents that have pre-existing medication requirements. All medications are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Q: What kind of program is best for me?
A: A variety of options exist and you can choose the best one for you. A brief episode of withdrawal followed by counselling might be the best option for one person. Another may need longer withdrawal, a few months in residential rehabilitation, assistance with employment, training or education and accommodation support. Someone else may be best suited to supported accommodation, participation in a self help group and longer term family counselling. Contact Watershed staff for advice on what may work best for you.

Q: What personal items do I need to bring?
A: Clients need to bring clothing and personal items. All food (including tea/coffee) is supplied.

Q: Can I bring my mobile phone/Ipod/mp3 player or laptop?
A: Yes

Q: Is there a dress code?
A: Yes. Because proper dress and respect for oneself is an important aspect of recovery, we require all of our residents to abide by our dress code.

Q: Can I make phone calls during my stay?
A: Clients are allowed to make phone call during their stay as long as they have access to a phone card or their own personal mobile phone.

Q: Can I write/receive letters during my stay?
A: Yes. Clients are encouraged to write and receive letters from friends and family throughout the program.

Q: Can I leave the grounds whilst undertaking the program?
A: Yes. Clients are permitted to come and go as they please as long as they fulfill their program obligations.

Q: Can I get overnight or day leave?
A: Yes. Leave is granted on request after you have completed a minimum of one month at Carinya.

Q: Can I have visitors?
A: Given that the house is a shared accomodation facility, family/friend visits need to be approved by the Halfway House Co-ordinator.

Q: Will I have my own bedroom?
A: Clients usually share rooms with other clients. This helps to orientate the person to the program, and improve social interaction. After successfully completing the residential rehabilitation program, clients entering the Carinya Halfway House supported accommodation program may have their own room subject to bed availability.

Q: Can I have a car while in treatment?
A: Residents are permitted the privilege of having a car only after successfully completing the residential rehabilitation program and being in the Carinya Halfway House supported accommodation program for at least one month. Privilege of a car is decided on an individual treatment basis.

Q: Will I be able to work/study while I am in treatment?
A: Securing and maintaining gainful employment is an important part of the recovery process. Residents in the Carinya Halfway House supported accomodation program are encouraged to seek part-time or voluntary employment or study as part of their recovery program after one month and on an indidvidual treatment basis.

Detox FAQ’S

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 02:12:53 +0000

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.

DETOX.

Q: What substances can I detox from?
A: Watershed offers a withdrawal program from a range of illicit substances including cannabis, amphetamines, heroin, cocaine and ecstacy. Watershed also offers withdrawal from small amounts of methadone, although methadone maintenance is not available. Watershed does not offer withdrawal from alcohol or benzodiazepines, although clients who have recently undertaken an alternate withdrawal program from these substances are able to undertake the 4 week residential treatment program.

Q: How does one withdraw from alcohol?
A: A person who is physically dependent on alcohol should seek medical advice before suddenly stopping drinking, particularly if they are a heavy drinker. As the body adjusts to functioning without alcohol, the person can experience side effects such as tremors, mental confusion, cramps or convulsions. A medically supervised detoxification service can assist in managing the symptoms experienced during withdrawal, which may take from one to two weeks.

Q: How long does the detox program go for?
A: The detoxification program at Watershed usually lasts from 5 to 14 days depending on the substance the client is withdrawing from.

Q: How do I get into the program?
A: Clients must firstly personally call the Watershed to undertake a phone assessment. All clients are assessed individually to determine the program’s suitability in meeting their needs. Some clients may be referred to a more suitable treatment option. Clients are then placed on a waiting list whilst any necessary reports (eg. medication proformas, psychological reports) are sought. After all necessary reports are obtained clients are offered the next available bed. Face to face assessments are sometimes necessary and clients would be informed if this needed to occur prior to admission.

Q: Are there any upfront costs?
A: If you are receiving centrelink benefits there are no upfront costs required. Watershed becomes the nominee for your centrelink benenfit for the duration of your stay. When you leave any monies owing to you are transferred back into your nominated bank account. Any monies you owe us are deducted from your next payment. If you are not receiving centrelink benefits you can arrange payment details/structure with staff prior to your admission.

Q: What are the costs involved?
A: 15-17 years of age – $168 per week. 18-21 years of age – $196 per week. 21 years+ – $224 per week. Note: This does not cover costs such as medication, phone calls, and other personal needs.
Q: Is the detox program medicated?
A: Watershed does accept residents that have pre-existing medication requirements. All medications are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Q: Can I change/cease my medication (not withdrawal medication) whilst in the program?
A: Usually the answer is No. It is preferable to see to your Doctor about changing any medications prior to admission.
Q: What kind of program is best for me?
A: A variety of options exist and you can choose the best one for you. A brief episode of withdrawal followed by counselling might be the best option for one person. Another may need longer withdrawal, a few months in residential rehabilitation, assistance with employment, training or education and accommodation support. Someone else may be best suited to supported accommodation, participation in a self help group and longer term family counselling.

Q: What personal items do I need to bring?
A: Clients need only to bring a medium size bag of clothing only. Other personal items such as soap, shampoo etc. is supplied. All food (including tea/coffee) is supplied. Clients will not be permitted to bring in their own food. Arrangements are made by staff for clients with special dietary considerations.

Q: Can I bring my mobile phone/Ipod/mp3 player or laptop?
A: No.

Q: Is there a dress code?
A: Clients are allowed one personal phone call per week. An additional phone call is permitted for clients with dependent children under 18 years of age. Clients are permitted to make other phone calls with the consent of their caseworker to arrange aftercare options or to address other issues (e.g. legal). Family and friends are able to call and leave messages for clients but they cannot call and speak to them directly.

Q: Can I write/receive letters during my stay?
A: Yes. Clients are encouraged to write and receive letters from friends and family throughout the program. Watershed provides clients with stamps and envelopes.

Q: Can I leave the grounds whilst undertaking the program?
A: No. The program is strictly residential and clients are not permitted to leave the grounds without supervision under any circumstances.

Q: Can I get overnight or day leave?
A: No. Leave is not permitted

Q: Can I have visitors?
A: No family/friend visits are allowed during your stay at the Watershed, as we find that clients find it easier to focus on their recovery without visits. However, you may be allowed a visit from your caseworker/youth worker/aboriginal health worker/religious officer if it is therapeutically useful. This has to be negotiated with your caseworker.

Q: What is the length of time that I will be in treatment at Watershed?
A: Residents entering treatment at Watershed Drug & Alcohol Recovery & Education Centre can be admitted for periods between 5 days and 12 months. The detoxification program lasts between 5 and 14 days. The residential rehabilitation program lasts for 4 week and clients are then able to transition to the Halfway House supported accomodation facility for up to 6-9 months