![]() However, the study also found that most of the gains were made in the initial stages of the program, with a plateau in the final three months of residence. Nearly 60 per cent had a criminal history, just over 40 per cent left school at Year 10 or earlier, and over 60 per cent were assessed as being in moderate-severe psychological distress upon entry.Īnalysis of the data is continuing, but preliminary results show participants achieving significant reductions in drug dependence between program entry and departure, with improvements in mood and quality of life being maintained 12 months later, and social functioning continuing to improve in the year after the program. Amphetamines, or ice, was the most common primary drug of concern to them, says Dr Newton-John. More than half of the 117 individuals identified as users of multiple drugs in the month before their entry into the program. The researchers wanted to know whether the program improved the physical and mental wellbeing of the participants, and to what degree those gains were maintained three, six, nine and 12 months afterwards. The residential program treats about 100 people a year for severe alcohol and other drug problems, using a ‘therapeutic community’ model where residents not only aim to help themselves but also support their fellow residents.ĭuring the 12-month program residents work with counsellors and medical staff while progressing through stages where they gradually assume the day-to-day administration and running of the residence – taking on jobs such as maintenance, gardening, cooking, driving and administration. ![]() The UTS study focused on the 117 people who took part in its residential program in Sydney between July 2017 and July 2018. In the decades since then it has grown into one of Australia’s largest rehabilitation services, with more than 35,000 people having taken part in its various programs. Odyssey House was founded in 1977 by Sydney businessman Walter McGrath after the death of his son from a heroin overdose. “But they wanted to evaluate their existing programs and build the evidence base for the positive story they have to tell.” “Odyssey House has a great reputation across the sector,” says Associate Professor Toby Newton-John of the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), a clinical psychologist who led the research. The findings of the study by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) are helping the not-for-profit organisation make its case for funding to donors and governments, while also supporting the case for new treatment options. Now, for the first time, the impact of its well-known residential rehabilitation program has been confirmed by independent research. ![]() Odyssey House NSW has provided care to people struggling with addiction for over 40 years. ![]() Students with accessibility requirements.Short course and microcredential participants.International Studies and Social Sciences. ![]()
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