A mental health program among substance users implemented by a health promotion office

Abstract

Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County can be classified as one of the most disadvantaged counties in Hungary. The difficult living conditions appear as a mental burden for the population of the county. Numerous studies support the fact that the per capita alcohol consumption in Hungary is very high, which is the most dangerous form of health-damaging behavior besides smoking. As a quick and temporary ’solution’ to mental strain, many people – among the adult population – choose alcohol consumption. Taking into account the information described above, a group session for substance user was started by a health promotion office, which is maintained by the Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County Hospitals and University Teaching Hospital. We would like to provide an insight into the details of a professional program implemented with a target group that is disadvantaged in several aspects. With the help of this study, we describe the program’s propagation, advantages, limitations, and the course of the program. We hope that all this can contribute to the successful work of other health promotion offices in the country in the future.