Increasing Participation in “Dry January”
The start of a new year often inspires people to make changes in their lives, one of which is participating in “Dry January,” a challenge where individuals abstain from alcohol for the entire month. Valgerður Rúnarsdóttir, Chief Physician at Vogur Hospital in Iceland, has observed that such initiatives can be revealing for those who may have underlying alcohol-related issues. According to Rúnarsdóttir, if individuals find it difficult to refrain from alcohol, it might indicate a deeper problem that requires attention. “If it’s not a simple choice of whether to drink or not, but rather a potential addiction, then it should certainly be addressed,” she stated.
Expanding on Dry January: “Sober February”
Rúnarsdóttir notes that SÁÁ, the National Center of Addiction Medicine in Iceland, also promotes “Sober February,” encouraging those interested to extend their abstinence from alcohol for another month. Despite the popularity of these initiatives, Rúnarsdóttir mentions that treatment demand remains steady throughout the year, not peaking at any specific time. However, she acknowledges that the New Year often brings new resolutions for many people, including goals to change their relationship with alcohol or other substances.
Seeking Help and Treatment Options
For those who believe they might have a problem, help is available. SÁÁ suggests that individuals first consult with their general practitioner or book a consultation with one of their counselors. Treatment options are available at four locations: Vogur Hospital, outpatient clinics in Reykjavik and Akureyri, and Vík on Kjalarnes, where individuals can receive inpatient treatment, typically lasting four weeks. Outpatient treatment can extend over several months, allowing for follow-up care.
No Waiting Lists at Outpatient Clinics
According to Rúnarsdóttir, many individuals can quickly access treatment, especially at outpatient clinics where there are no waiting lists. However, the situation is different for those requiring inpatient treatment at Vogur Hospital. The average waiting time for treatment at Vogur is 60 to 70 days, which is relatively short compared to general healthcare waiting times. Still, for some, this wait can be critical.
Alcohol Consumption and Its Impact
Rúnarsdóttir highlights that alcohol addiction is one of the most costly issues for society, causing widespread harm. Although alcohol addiction itself has not increased, the frequency and regularity of drinking among those addicted have intensified, leading to more severe health consequences. “Alcohol is a potent toxin with numerous adverse health effects, including cancer, gastrointestinal diseases, liver inflammation, and cognitive impairments,” she explained.
Challenges in Meeting Treatment Demand
SÁÁ’s treatment services cater to over 3,200 individuals annually, including around 1,500 admissions to Vogur Hospital. However, there is a growing demand for services, particularly for opioid addiction treatment, which has seen increased attention in recent years. Despite their efforts, Rúnarsdóttir acknowledges that the demand for treatment exceeds their capacity.
Future Plans and Negotiations
SÁÁ and Icelandic Health Insurance are currently negotiating a comprehensive agreement to enhance service provision. These discussions, ongoing for several years, aim to secure a holistic contract rather than a piecemeal approach, allowing SÁÁ to diversify and expand its services to reach more individuals.
Conclusion
The initiatives like “Dry January” and “Sober February” serve as important catalysts for individuals to assess their relationship with alcohol. While these movements highlight personal responsibility, they also underscore the need for accessible and comprehensive treatment services. As Iceland continues to tackle alcohol addiction’s societal impacts, the collaboration between SÁÁ and Icelandic Health Insurance will be crucial in meeting the increasing demand for support and treatment. The negotiations offer a promising step towards a more holistic and effective approach to addiction treatment in the country.