Former addicts demand a safe sports field against the danger of drugs!

Former addicts demand a safe sports field against the danger of drugs!

In northern Germany, many people struggle with the consequences of drug and alcohol addiction. This is particularly challenging for former addicts who, despite their recovery, are often confronted with the shadows of their past. So do David Pahlke and Mario W., who both report on their addiction and how they found their way into a new life. David started smoking weed in a children's home when he was just 12 years old, which led to a long whirlwind of alcohol, cocaine and heroin addiction. Unlike many others, he realized in prison that he wanted to make a change. He now lives in “Haus Braunschweig”, a residential home for chronic addicts, where drugs are strictly forbidden and at the same time new perspectives are to be created. Mario, on the other hand, fought through years of addiction to alcohol, speed, LSD and medication, supported by his sister, who helped him go to therapy.

Both emphasize the crucial importance of community and a clear daily structure in “Haus Braunschweig”. Nevertheless, there is a significant hurdle: They avoid public sports grounds because drugs are often offered there. Mario W. impressively describes the dangers posed by young people and drugs in these places. Many of the former addicts therefore urgently want their own multifunctional sports field for football, basketball and volleyball in order to create a safe environment for leisure activities. Florian Schoenrock, the facility manager, emphasizes how important it is to develop new interests without drugs in order to break the vicious circle. The location for the sports field has already been determined, but unfortunately there is a lack of the necessary financing.

Drug addiction in Germany

The problem of drug and addictive addiction is not just local, but extends throughout Germany. The Federal Ministry of Health points out that drugs and addictive substances cause significant health, social and economic problems. In 2021, around 11.6 million people in Germany smoked, while 1.6 million are addicted to alcohol. In addition, an estimated 2.9 million people suffer from problematic drug use, and around 1.3 million have problems with cannabis and illegal drugs. Drug and addiction policy aims to reduce the consumption of addictive substances and minimize drug-related problems.

An important part of this policy is prevention. Education about the dangers of addictive substances is necessary in order to offer those affected timely help. Advice and treatment offers for addicts should be strengthened in order to achieve a sustainable improvement in the situation. Digital addiction counseling is also being pushed forward to offer a broader range of support.

Commonalities in the fight against addiction

The reports from David and Mario show that getting out of addiction is a concern for society as a whole. Commonalities are expressed not only in the desire for safe retreats such as sports fields, but also in the understanding that every step towards a drug-free life is a team effort. The fight against drug addiction requires comprehensive cooperation between all social forces.

The need to address addiction and drug problems has been reinforced by both personal experiences and nationwide studies. The Epidemiological Addiction Survey provides valuable data to record the current situation and develop targeted measures. The well-being of those affected comes first, and it is time to finally make the appropriate resources available for projects such as the desired sports field.

A sporting retreat could not only offer the residents of “Haus Braunschweig” a meaningful leisure activity, but also send a symbolic sign of hope in the fight against drug addiction.