Managing alcohol‐related problems among Indigenous Australians: what the literature tells us |
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Authors: | Dennis Gray Sherry Saggers Edward Wilkes Steve Allsop Coralie Ober |
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Affiliation: | 1. National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University of Technology, Western Australia;2. Queensland Alcohol and Drug Research and Education Centre, University of Queensland |
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Abstract: | Objective: To contextualise and provide an overview of two review papers – prepared as part of a larger research program – dealing with different aspects of the treatment of Indigenous Australians with alcohol‐related problems. Method: The papers were reviewed thematically and compared to identify key issues raised in them. Findings: Together, the papers highlight the paucity of the evidence base for the provision of treatment for Indigenous Australians with alcohol‐related problems. Among the key issues identified are: the need to engage with clients in culturally safe ways; practitioner, organisational and client barriers to engagement; the contexts in which Indigenous drinking and treatment take place; the need to develop rigorous methods of evaluation more appropriate to Indigenous cultural and service provision settings; and the importance of effective partnerships in the provision of services. Conclusion: For those working in the field, the reviews direct attention to the need to review and interrogate our current practice. They also provide clear directions for future research. |
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Keywords: | Alcohol Aboriginal Indigenous brief interventions primary health care residential treatment |
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