Jakarta (Indonesia) - Cannabis is the most commonly used drug among adolescents. Drugs and other substance use disorders are often associated with co-morbid health disorders such as anxiety, depression and disruptive behaviour disorders in adolescents. In low- and middle-income countries, adolescents with drug and other substance use disorders and their families have little or no access to effective treatment for drug use disorders.
In response, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has developed and field tested the Treatnet Family training materials on elements of family therapy for adolescents with drug use disorders including those in contact with the criminal justice system.
During a pilot study in Indonesia, which ended in March 2020, 25 community treatment practitioners in Jakarta were trained and then supported families with substance use problems for several weeks. Initial results demonstrate that the intervention can be effectively used by practitioners in community settings. Moreover, participating adolescents showed a significant reduction in substance use and substance-use related problems, improved family communication and reduction in mental health problems.
A similar feasibility study is about to start in Viet Nam and measures are being taken to prepare for the remote provision of Treatnet Family psychosocial support in line with UNODC’s related guidance for treatment, care and rehabilitation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Treatnet Family training materials
Guidance for treatment, care and rehabilitation during the COVID-19 pandemic
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) - UNODC updates
