DRASTIC is an acronym for Drama, Rhythm, Art, Self-Therapy, Inspired, Creation. It is an arts and life skills program which utilizes peer support for young people 10-25 years. It is a program which caters for all young people and achieves exceptional outcomes with young people with complex needs including, substance use, young people in contact with the juvenile justice system and or outside of the education system. DRASTIC works with young people to develop their strengths and skills. The program is delivered using a relationships model where young people interact with workers and mentors on an equal level to discuss issues and concerns, develop and experiment with new skills as well as create amazing artworks and achieve personal outcomes. Throughout the program young people have the opportunity to share personal stories as well as listen to the stories of the peer support workers. DRASTIC utilises a group of young peer support workers as positive role models and uses early intervention techniques in order to reduce harms.
DRASTIC runs 1 day a week for 4 hours over 7 weeks - at youth friendly spaces. In the final week of the program the participants may choose to have a community showcase, a celebration of their achievements. Through participating in the DRASTIC program young people will become a part of the Gold Coast Drug Councils Inter Urban Arts Community and will be supported to participate in further arts and cultural events, projects and workshops.