Kondis ry in english
Kondis ry is a registered association whose purpose is to act as a support network for the relatives of drug users by utilizing peer experience. On the other hand, it also includes awareness-raising and information activities. However, the target group is not only the users' loved ones and relatives, but support is also provided to the users. Kondis ry also works with schools, educational institutions and authorities, so our target group also includes public entities.
Kondis ry was founded by Maria Thelen, Minna Leskinen and Jukka Riipinen. Together, they all have more than 60 years of experience in substance abuse by a family member. Maria Thelen has trained as an expert by experience, Minna Leskinen is practical nurse expertized mental health and substance abuse work. Jukka Riipinen is an expert in family-centered drug work through his long close experience. The founders are members of the Board of Directors and are responsible for operational activities and also act as operational leaders.
.Kondis ry was founded because it was felt that there were not enough support measures available for the relatives of drug users or a party that would provide this support. The activities are based on peer support. Kondis ry is based in Sipoo.
How does Kondis ry work?
Our association provides support to drug users and their loved ones, family members, relatives etc., we act as a link between them and the authorities. Our operations aim to support the coping of both users and their loved ones. We also carry out preventive substance abuse work by organizing lectures in schools and educational institutions.
Peer support
Our association organizes peer group meetings in several different locations, most of which are located in the Helsinki metropolitan area or major cities. Peer group leaders have been trained for their task.
We also have a private member group in social media, Facebook, where peers seek and receive support from other relatives of substance abusers who are currently or have been in the same situation. We also have a separate group for men and a grief group for those who have lost loved ones due to substance abuse.
Cooperation, awareness-raising and prevention
The association cooperates with authorities, schools and educational institutions. We organize lectures where we share information with both students and their parents. We have discussions, talk about intoxicants like a drug market, present the current situation, etc. The lectures also include an expert by experience to talk about his or her own experiences as a loved one of a substance abuser. There are separate lectures for parents and pupils.