Substance Abuse
Harmful substance use or addiction that affects daily life, health, and relationships.
What is Substance abuse?
Substance abuse refers to a situation where the use of alcohol, drugs, medications, or other substances causes harm in your life. Addiction can develop gradually, and you may not always notice it yourself. Substance abuse is an illness — not a sign of weakness.
When should you seek help?
- Your substance use has increased or is hard to stop
- Use is causing problems in relationships or at work
- You need more of the substance to achieve the same effect
- You experience withdrawal symptoms
- You use substances to relieve distress
How is Substance abuse treated?
There are many options for treating substance abuse: - Therapy (CBT, motivational interviewing, group therapy) - Peer support (AA, NA, and other groups) - Detoxification and rehabilitation - Medication - Substance abuse clinic services (low-threshold services)
Seeking help is a brave step, and support is available. Wellbeing services county substance use services are often free or low-cost, but practices vary: check your own area's website. Withdrawal can be dangerous, so plan stopping with a professional.
If you are in immediate danger or have thoughts of suicide, call 112. For crisis support, call the MIELI Crisis Helpline on 09 2525 0111 (in Finnish, 24/7). More help: crisis help.