Finland trains drug users in first aid to reduce youth overdose deaths

Finland’s welfare regions are taking new steps to prevent drug-related deaths among young people by training both professionals and drug users in emergency first aid, public broadcaster Yle reports.

In 2024, 247 people died from drug overdoses in Finland, including 40 under the age of 25. The southern region of Etelä-Savo is the only area where drug use is the leading cause of premature death.

The project, funded by a €3 million grant from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, aims to teach early intervention skills to professionals in schools, youth services, and law enforcement.

“Asking about drug use is a good starting point,” said project leader Jani Naukkarinen. “If we can identify problems early, they won’t escalate.”

A 2023 investigation by the Safety Investigation Authority found that every youth overdose death examined could have been prevented with proper intervention. Many victims had prior contact with social and healthcare services, often struggling with mental health issues or neurodivergence.

First aid training for drug users

In partnership with the Finnish Red Cross, welfare regions are offering first aid courses for drug users, covering how to call for help, assist unconscious individuals, and stop bleeding.

“Most overdoses happen in private homes,” Naukkarinen said. “We want to lower the threshold for seeking help.”

Signs of a life-threatening overdose include extreme fatigue, pale skin, irregular breathing, and unresponsiveness to stimulation. Authorities advise calling emergency services (112), placing the person in the recovery position, and starting CPR if they stop breathing.

Encouraging help without stigma

Fear of legal consequences—drug use is a criminal offense in Finland—can deter users from seeking assistance. Naukkarinen emphasized that the goal is support, not blame.

“We help, we don’t judge,” he said, noting that Etelä-Savo’s mental health and addiction services offer walk-in appointments without prior notice. Under Finland’s treatment guarantee, those under 23 must receive primary care within 14 days, with urgent cases seen in 2–3 days.