Guide from erstmalreden.de

I notice I use something so I do not have to feel

Sometimes it is not only about alcohol, drugs, gambling, or media. Sometimes it is also about getting through pressure, fear, emptiness, or sleep.

Thoughtful person in a calm setting

Strain, crisis & safety

In short

What this page is about
A first bridge if use or behavior becomes a problem and you do not know where to start.
This may fit if
you are looking into this topic: I notice I use something so I do not have to feel
If you do just one thing
Name what is getting out of control.

You do not have to be certain yet

You do not need to know whether it is addiction. If control, money, relationships, school, work, or health suffer, you may seek counseling.

Shame is common

Many people feel ashamed and wait a long time. Counseling is exactly for the moment when you no longer want to sort it alone.

Where to start

DigiSucht offers online counseling about addiction, substance use, gambling, and media use. A doctor, addiction counseling, or psychosocial counseling can also be first paths.

If danger is involved

For poisoning, dangerous withdrawal, self-harm risk, violence, or danger to life, call 112. Then do not stay in chat.

Updated: July 4, 2026 · Sources checked: July 4, 2026

Sources and notes

What you can do now

If you only wanted information

This guide may fit as a next step: Which counseling center fits my problem?

Open article

If you want to try first contact

Use the sentence helper or copy one short sentence. First contact does not have to be perfect.

Prepare a sentence

If it has become urgent

Then reading more is not the priority. Open urgent help or call 112 in Germany if there is immediate danger.

Open urgent help
  1. Name what is getting out of control.
  2. Use addiction counseling or DigiSucht.
  3. Call 112 in acute danger.

This page offers orientation and words for first contact. If you need counseling, therapy, or emergency help, real contact points matter.