Red alert: addiction counseling in Schwerin is fighting for 13,200 euros!

Red alert: addiction counseling in Schwerin is fighting for 13,200 euros!

In Schwerin, concerns are growing about the financial security of addiction counseling. The Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania State Coordination Center for Addiction Issues (LAKOST MV) has identified an alarming funding gap of 13,200 euros. According to a report by Schwerin.News The managing director of the Evangelical Addiction Aid MV, Birgit Grämke, calls for an immediate solution in a letter to the Schwerin city council. Addiction counseling plays a crucial role by stabilizing crises, accompanying therapy paths and relieving the burden on relatives.

LAKOST's loud warning concerns the reliability of the help system. Addiction is not just a personal problem but is considered a serious, potentially life-threatening illness. LAKOST appeals to politicians to reject the mayor's objection and to ensure full funding for 4.5 addiction counseling specialists in Schwerin. “A thinning out of advice leads to higher follow-up costs in other areas, such as youth welfare or the health system,” emphasizes LAKOST.

Financing problems in Germany

This situation is not unique to Schwerin. A survey by the German Center for Addiction Issues (DHS) shows that around 75% of addiction counseling centers in Germany cannot cover their costs. The report from Medical Journal makes it clear that the shortage of skilled workers and increasing demand, especially after the introduction of the cannabis law, are exacerbating the situation. According to managing director Christina Rummel, without a solution to the financing problems there is a risk of a nationwide collapse of addiction counseling in Germany.

The challenges are enormous. Precarious municipal budgets that provide fluctuating subsidies for prevention and advice while therapy costs are reimbursed contribute to the uncertainty. Critics, such as the head of a ministry in Hesse, criticize an unfair two-tier system in addiction help and are calling for a new, coordinated nationwide strategy to meet the growing need.

The role of prevention

LAKOST calls for a forward-looking addiction prevention strategy that is considered fiscally rational and socio-politically necessary. The call to improve the financial framework could be an important step towards stabilizing the advisory services in Schwerin and beyond. “Secured financing not only protects the advice centers, but also for the entire city society,” explains LAKOST. The core of this debate is more than just a question of money - it is about avoiding broken chains of aid and ensuring a reliable aid system.

Political support is therefore absolutely necessary to ensure addiction counseling in Schwerin and nationwide. LAKOST appeals in the highest voices to those responsible to finally give serious illnesses the importance they deserve. Last but not least, in terms of public services, it is essential that those seeking help receive the support they need.