Help with substance abuse issues
The primary resource for young people struggling with or worried about substance use is their school’s or educational institution’s nurse, psychologist or welfare officer. The topic of substance use can also be brought up with a youth centre employee, for example.
Beginning in early September, the Youth Substance Abuse Service Pysäkki will provide assistance to young people grappling with severe substance abuse issues and those who are at risk of social exclusion. These services are specifically designed for residents of Helsinki aged 13–23.
Young people are encouraged to reach out to Pysäkki independently, without being directed to do so by a professional or adult. You are welcome to visit Pysäkki just as you are.
Starting from 4 September, the Youth Substance Abuse Service Pysäkki can be found at Herttoniemi Hospital (entrance H, Siilikuja 5H). Pysäkki is open Mon–Fri 9.00–15.00, and the telephone service is available during these hours at tel. +358 9 310 24659 and +358 40 191 0695.
Mental health support
The primary resource for young people worried about their life situation or mental health issues is also their school’s or educational institution’s nurse, psychologist or welfare officer.
Mieppi’s mental health service units offer accessible help and discussion support for people facing mental health and life situation challenges. These services are available for people aged 13 and above.
The services of Mieppi do not require a professional referral. You can book an appointment yourself online or by calling a unit directly. You can find further information about Mieppi units at www.hel.fi/mieppi.
The Helsinki Youth Station will continue to provide mental health services after the launch of the Youth Substance Abuse Service Pysäkki. To access services at the Youth Station, you need a referral issued by a professional.
The Youth Station will continue to operate at its familiar address, Siltasaarenkatu 4 (6th floor).
Services being actively developed
“This change will improve the accessibility of mental health and substance abuse services tailored for young people. Our goal is to offer young people with easy-to-reach, timely and effective services,” says Helsinki’s Director of Health and Substance Abuse Services Leena Turpeinen.
Youth Substance Abuse Service Pysäkki and the Youth Station will be engaging in close and flexible cooperation. The priority is to minimise the need for transferring young clients between these units, striving to ensure that they can receive all the services they need through a single point of contact.
This change is part of the reorganisation of Helsinki’s psychiatric and substance abuse services, which came into effect on 1 September.
Leena Turpeinen wishes to encourage young people to openly address matters related to mental health and substance abuse without hesitation. Help is readily available.