29.01.2025 - An increasing number of callers to the substance abuse helpline of Ehkäisevä päihdetyö EHYT ry are young adults. In 2024, nearly one-fifth (19%) of those seeking help through the service were aged 18–29, compared to just 12% in 2021. The helpline provides guidance and conversation support on issues and concerns related to substance use.
Last year, the helpline answered 9,192 calls. While the total number of calls has remained steady in recent years, the proportion of young callers has grown year by year.
“It is very encouraging that young people have found the helpline,” says Kaisa Åberg, head of the substance abuse helpline.
“The earlier one seeks help for a problem, the easier it is to manage.”
Discussing substance abuse is easier anonymously
The situations of young people who reach out vary. Some have struggled with severe issues since childhood, while others are looking for ways to keep their occasional substance use under control. Many are also concerned about a loved one.
“Young people often bring up their parents’ alcohol use. Many have experienced a ‘glass childhood’ with painful memories that continue to trouble them even after they have moved out,” Åberg says.
Many also wonder how they can help a friend whose substance use no longer seems just recreational.
“It has been heartening to see how much young people care for each other. Many who seek support for their own situation mention that they called at the encouragement of a friend.”
Drugs are discussed in every second call from a young person
Alcohol-related issues remain the most common reason for contacting the helpline. Alcohol is also the primary topic for most young callers. However, drug use and experimentation have increased, and with them, the related problems. Every second call from a young person involves a discussion about drug use.
“The number of drug-related deaths among young people in Finland is at an alarming level. It is critical that 24/7, low-threshold support remains available,” Åberg stresses.
According to Statistics Finland, a record 91 young people under the age of 25 died from drug-related causes in 2023, more than ever before.
“With illegal substances, callers often fear the consequences of seeking help. The helpline allows them to speak anonymously and receive professional advice without worrying about repercussions or their information being shared.”
Concerns over funding cuts for NGOs
Funding for social and health organizations has been reduced for 2025, and by the end of the parliamentary term, one-third of grants will be cut. EHYT, which operates the helpline, recently concluded change negotiations. While the helpline has not yet faced staff reductions, if the planned cuts go ahead, 24/7 service can no longer be maintained.
“Problems and the need for help don’t follow a schedule. It is alarming that low-threshold support services are being cut at the same time as social and healthcare services are in crisis and social security is being weakened,” Åberg says.
“Substance abuse problems impose enormous costs on society every year. Cutting early support services is like taking out a payday loan: it might seem like a good idea in the short term, but in the end, the costs will be far greater,” Åberg warns.
In 2024, the helpline responded to 9,192 calls. As in previous years, alcohol remained the most common topic, accounting for three-quarters of all calls. Drugs were discussed in one-third of cases. The majority of callers sought help regarding their own substance use, while one in four called out of concern for a loved one.
The substance abuse helpline 0800 900 45 operates 24/7, every day of the year. Calls are answered by substance abuse professionals. The service is anonymous and free of charge.
Source: EHYT ry