• Julkaistu
• 24.04.07

Looking for help?

According to the law, the general aim of welfare services for intoxicant abusers is to prevent and reduce the problematic use of intoxicants and the relating social and health problems by promoting one’s abilities and increasing the safety of problem users and their family members. It is the responsibility of the social and health care authorities in each municipality to make sure that enough services are provided. Services are mainly general social and health care services, with special services available for problem users.

When you have problems with intoxicants it is good to make an appointment to see a doctor or a public health nurse at your local health centre. You can also see your company nurse or doctor in order to talk about your intoxicant problems and discuss the medical examinations and treatment needed. Whenever you are in need of urgent care, you can seek help in a hospital urgency room.

Talking about your problems and practising your skills in managing them will also often help in overcoming your intoxicant problems. A social services centre will provide assistance and advice on financial problems, child care or residence, among other things. Family counselling centres will advise and help you if you have problems within the family, whether these include intoxicant problems or not.

A-Clinics, maintained either by municipalities or the A-Clinic Foundation, are service units for people with intoxicant problems and for their families. A-Clinics and youth centres in larger towns are the core of the special services in outpatient care. In inpatient care, detoxification units and rehabilitation centres are maintained by several co-operating municipalities or owned by organisations. In addition there are versatile housing and day centre services for problem users without permanent lodgings. Professionals working in special services are mainly social workers, nurses, doctors and advisors.

Remember - if you or your family member have problems with intoxicants help is available. You just need to take the first step towards it.