Overcoming addictions [City of Tampere]

A man in a yellow shirt sits with his dog on the cliffs of Onkiniemi, looking out over the lake.

Various addictions can weaken mental well-being. A person may not always recognize or admit the problem themselves – often it is those close to them who notice the situation first. Becoming aware of your own condition is the first step toward recovery.

Addictions are often characterized by a strong urge or compulsion, along with difficulty controlling use or stopping altogether. They may involve substances such as alcohol, drugs, medications, or tobacco products. Addictions can also be linked to behaviours like gambling, online gaming, sex, social media use, or shopping.

Recovery from addiction is possible. A wide range of support is available.

Explore addictive behavior

The Päihdelinkki online service provides information and support related to substance use and addictions.

Older adults can assess their alcohol consumption and receive guidance on reducing it by using the Alcohol Meter for people over 65.

To help reduce or quit alcohol use, you can make use of the following self-help materials.

Support for becoming smoke-free is available through resources such as the smoking cessation program and healthcare professionals. The “Stumppaa tähän” section on the Suomen ASH Association’s website offers helpful information for quitting smoking. Parents of children who use snus or other nicotine products can find tips and guidance on the EHYT Association’s website.

Information about gaming addictions, as well as support and guidance for gamblers and their loved ones, is available on various websites.

The Päihdelinkki website offers several tests to help identify issues such as social media or sex addiction.

Tests and counters - Päihdelinkki

PAUSE: Take a moment to reflect on where your concern comes from and what emotions it brings up for you. Spend a little time thinking about how to begin the conversation in a respectful and constructive way.

ASK: Remember to approach the person with respect and avoid making them feel guilty. Expressing your concern and care is a good way to start: “I’m worried about you and your health.”

LISTEN: Choose a natural moment and a calm setting for the conversation. Good listening means encouraging the person to share more and showing empathy. Avoid interrupting, making assumptions, offering quick solutions, or dominating the conversation. You can ask follow-up questions, but don’t interrogate. If needed, look for more information together and suggest helpful links or support services.

ENCOURAGE: Maintain a supportive tone. If the person is also concerned about their situation, try to identify the first small steps toward change together. Even a small step is a step forward.

Information and support

You can find information about mental health and substance use services on the website of the Wellbeing Services County of Pirkanmaa (Pirha). Peer support groups are listed under the “Support and Peer Groups” section on the Tampere Region event and activities calendar. Resources for loved ones concerned about young people’s internet use and gaming problems are available on the Mielenterveystalo website.

Photo: Laura Vanzo / Visit Tampere

Updated 29.9.2025

Steps toward better wellbeing

Overcoming addictions

Explore addictive behavior

Alcohol and drugs Expand Collapse

Tobacco and snus Expand Collapse

Addictions related to gaming or gambling Expand Collapse

Other addictions Expand Collapse

Guideline for addressing substance use in conversation Expand Collapse

Information and support