Key Points at a Glance

• Seeking support is an important step and a sign of responsibility—not of weakness.
• The earlier problematic substance use or addictive behavior is identified, the easier it is to make changes.
• No one has to deal with an addiction alone. There are numerous free and confidential counseling services available.
• Family members can also seek support.
• Change takes time. Setbacks can be part of the process and don’t mean the journey has failed.

At some point, many people realize that their consumption or a certain behavior is taking up more of their time than is good for them. Still, it’s often hard to talk about it. Shame, insecurity, or the fear of being judged often lead those affected to keep their difficulties to themselves for as long as possible.

In fact, the exact opposite is true: Seeking support is an active step toward taking responsibility for one’s own health.

No one has to wait until the situation escalates. It can be helpful to seek assistance as soon as the first questions or uncertainties arise.

Support is tailored to each individual

Not everyone needs the same kind of help. For some people, simply having an open conversation with someone they trust can help. Others would like to speak with a counseling center anonymously at first or seek medical advice. Still others require more intensive therapeutic support.

The type of support that is appropriate depends on your personal situation. Above all, it’s important to take the first step.

Family members are often affected as well

An addiction rarely affects only the person involved. Partners, children, parents, or friends often witness changes in substance use or behavior. This can lead to worry, feelings of helplessness, or conflicts.

Family members, too, do not have to bear this burden alone. Counseling centers not only support those affected, but often also support people in their personal circles.

Seeking advice does not mean taking responsibility for others. However, it can help you better understand the situation and improve your ability to cope with it.

Change takes time

Habits don’t form overnight—and they usually don’t change overnight either. That’s why it’s normal for change to take time. Small steps are often more sustainable than trying to change everything at once.

Setbacks, too, can be part of the process of change. They do not mean that all the progress made so far has been lost. Rather, they offer the opportunity to better understand which situations are particularly challenging and what kind of support might be helpful.

Where can I find support?

There are numerous free and confidential support services available in Germany.

Family doctor

Often, the family doctor’s office is the first place people turn to. There, health-related questions can be discussed, and additional support services can be arranged if needed.

Addiction Counseling Centers

Local and nonprofit addiction counseling centers provide confidential counseling, usually free of charge. They support both those affected and their families, and help them find appropriate resources.

Psychotherapists

If you are seeking therapeutic support, psychotherapy services can be helpful.

Self-Help Groups

Many people affected by this find that talking with others who have had similar experiences is a source of relief. Self-help groups provide a safe environment and foster mutual support.

Free and Public Support Services

If you’re looking for support, you can reach out to the following resources, among others:

• Federal Institute for Public Health (BIÖG) – Information on addiction, prevention, and counseling services.
• German Center for Addiction Issues (DHS) – Information on addiction and a nationwide search for addiction counseling centers.
• NAKOS – National Contact and Information Center for the Promotion and Support of Self-Help Groups – Help finding self-help groups in your area.
• Local addiction counseling centers run by municipalities and welfare organizations (such as Caritas, Diakonie, AWO, the German Red Cross, or the Paritätischer Wohlfahrtsverband) generally offer free and confidential counseling.
• Family doctors help assess the situation and connect patients with appropriate support.

In acute crisis situations, if you feel that you can no longer protect yourself or others, please call 112 immediately or go to a hospital’s emergency room.

In a nutshell

No one has to walk the path to recovery from addiction alone. The sooner you seek support, the easier it is to make changes. Free counseling centers, doctors’ offices, psychotherapy services, and self-help groups offer a wide range of options for finding the right kind of help. The first step is often the most important one—and can mark the beginning of positive change.

Your Next Step

Even just a few minutes of reflection can help you apply what you’ve read to your own situation.

Take a moment and ask yourself:

• Is there anything about my consumption or behavior that concerns me?
• Who or which counseling center could be my first point of contact?
• What small step can I take today to give myself some support?