Is addiction counseling available in several languages?

Finding addiction counseling in several languages is possible, but it is not equally easy everywhere. The addiction help directory of the Deutsche Hauptstelle für Suchtfragen (DHS) can be filtered by language, and that is where you start. Whether a service actually speaks your language is best clarified afterwards, directly with the service. This article shows you how to proceed and what to look out for.

Why language matters so much in counseling

Addiction counseling deals with personal topics such as use, feelings, relationships and fears. People who can express themselves in their own language often describe personal matters more easily and understand the answers better. This applies especially when terms such as effects, dependence or withdrawal are important in the conversation.

For that reason, it is worth taking the language question seriously before you agree to an appointment.

How to filter the addiction help directory by language

The DHS addiction help directory works with a search form. You enter a postal code or town, choose the radius and then set the language filter. A postal code is enough to start, so you do not have to fill in every field. The more criteria you combine, the fewer results you get.

1. Open the addiction help directory on dhs.de.
2. Enter your postal code or town.
3. Set the language filter to the language you need.
4. Check the results and note two or three services.

The radius can be set between 2 and 100 kilometers. If you live in a smaller town, widen it, because there will then be more choice.

Why you should ask the service directly

The entries in the directory are based on information provided by the services themselves. A language entry therefore does not automatically mean that every counselor speaks that language. Call and ask specifically. Examples of good questions:

• Is there a counselor who speaks my language?
• How long will it take until I get an appointment with that person?
• Can interpreters be brought in if no one speaks the language?
• Can I start the conversation in German and switch later?

The answers help you choose between two services. Write down who told you what.

Online services in your language

Online counseling can lower the barrier, because you do not have to travel to the service. The online counseling of mindzone is aimed at people seeking help, people who use substances, people affected by use, and friends and relatives. It is confidential, anonymous and free of charge. Clarify which languages are possible there through the contact address before you book an appointment.

According to the platform, DigiSucht is anonymous on request and free of charge. The platform itself is so far only available in German. According to DigiSucht, counseling is offered in various languages and depends on the counselors at the respective counseling service. You can see which languages are possible during registration, under the suggested services.

If you need interpreters

Some services work with interpreters. Whether this is possible for you depends on the provider and the local situation. Raise the topic at the first contact. A conversation with an interpreter often takes a little more time, so request the appointment in good time.

Family members should also not step in as interpreters when sensitive topics are involved. This can strain trust, and it is harder to talk openly about content.

Plain language and simple information

Some services provide information in plain language. If that helps you, ask for it specifically. Pictures, short sentences and leaflets can also make things easier to understand. State offices for addiction questions sometimes have materials to download. The Niedersächsische Landesstelle für Suchtfragen (NLS), for example, offers brochures for young people and parents that you can order or download as needed.

Family and friends as support

People who look for counseling in their own language often have relatives or friends who want to help. They can support the search, coordinate appointments with you or read information together. During the conversation itself, it is usually better for the specialist to speak directly with you. In that case, interpreters or the counseling service itself are the better solution.

Waiting times and availability

In the online counseling of mindzone, requests are meant to be answered within 2 working days. This figure refers to the reply to a request, not to a fixed appointment. If you want counseling in a particular language, ask specifically when a suitable appointment is free.

At local counseling services, waiting times can vary by region. Ask on the phone, and book an appointment if needed, so that you do not have to wait long.

If nobody works in your language

Sometimes you will not find a service that speaks your language directly. Then the following routes are worth considering:

• Ask the service whether interpreters can be brought in.
• Check online services that work without travel.
• Ask the next service in the directory for a referral.
• Use the Sucht & Drogen Hotline if you would first like to speak on the phone.

Prevention and early help

If you notice that cannabis is burdening you in everyday life, speak with a service early, even if you are still unsure. Counseling does not have to wait until a crisis.

What you can do now

1. Search the addiction help directory using your postal code and the language filter.
2. Call two or three services and ask about the language directly.
3. Ask about interpreters or online offers if no one at a local service is a match.
4. Bring a sheet with your questions to the first contact.

For a first phone conversation, you can reach the Sucht & Drogen Hotline on 01806 313031. In an acute emergency, call 112.