Finland faces highest drug overdose fatalities as memorials honor victims

In Finland, the week dedicated to preventive substance abuse work is underway. Last year, 253 individuals died from drug overdoses in the country, with 89 of them under the age of 25. These figures represent the highest recorded by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL).

According to Hanna Eskola, team leader of Oulun Nuorten Ystävät ry, various factors have contributed to this alarming situation, including the fact that many young drug users fall through the safety net too early. She emphasizes the necessity for preventive work in maternity and child health clinics, preschools, and schools to avoid reaching critical situations where individuals resort to substances as a form of coping.

Finland has long been among the European leaders in drug-related fatalities among those under 25. Anna Bruun, a nurse at Oulun Katuklinikka, points out a prevailing societal belief that addiction is a personal choice, stressing that it is a disease. “Many of these drug-related deaths could have been prevented,” she says.

This week, memorials for those who have died from drug use are taking place across Finland. In Oulu, for example, 253 colored crosses have been placed at the city hall steps as a tribute to decision-makers, painted by those who have lost loved ones to drugs. Last year, seven individuals under 25 died from drug issues in Oulu, the third highest number in Finland.

Bruun highlights the need for open discussions about drug use to start at a young age, although this remains a challenging issue due to legal implications in seeking help. Both Bruun and Eskola acknowledge the need for more resources to assist those struggling with substance abuse, noting that individuals may have to wait up to a month to access treatment. They express hope for improvement, noting increased engagement from various organizations working in the field.