ALO 191 Drug Abuse Prevention and Support Hotline

ALO 191 Drug Abuse Consultation and Support Line is a consultation and support service established in Türkiye within the framework of drug abuse prevention and control. The line aims to strengthen prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation mechanisms, provide access to information and counseling services related to drugs, and offer appropriate referrals to individuals. The service is organized to support individuals who use drugs, those at risk of addiction, and their families.

Establishment and History

The ALO 191 line was officially introduced and inaugurated on 8 July 2015 in a ceremony attended by numerous parliamentarians. Since its establishment, the service has operated on a 7-day, 24-hour basis.

Service Structure and Staff

The consultation line operates with approximately 120 staff members, including sociologists, psychologists, child development specialists, nurses, and other health and counseling professionals who are graduates of relevant faculties. Staff respond to calls by providing counseling, guidance, and information services to individuals.

Service Processes and Procedures

For callers who report drug use, an assessment of addiction risk is conducted. Individuals assessed as low risk are referred to family physicians, psychiatric services, or school guidance units through motivational interviewing. High-risk individuals receive information about the substances they use and are referred to psychiatric services and AMATEM following motivational interviewing. In cases of emergency medical conditions, callers are informed to dial 112 directly; at the same time, operators collect necessary information and establish contact with 112.

In calls from family members who suspect drug use by a child, student, spouse, or relative, information is provided regarding behavioral, emotional, and physical changes associated with substance use. Upon the request of the individual who reports drug use, operators arrange appointments at the most suitable outpatient clinics and provide ongoing support through follow-up calls over a one-year period. This follow-up is carried out at least six times per year: during the first week, the 15th day, the first month, the third month, the sixth month, and the twelfth month.

Services Provided

The ALO 191 line provides information and referral services tailored to individual needs and offers motivational interviewing to those uncertain about quitting. The services include informing users of different age groups about appropriate communication methods, guiding and supporting family members during the addiction process, and providing information on behavioral, emotional, and physical changes linked to substance use. Additionally, information is provided regarding potential violence, abuse, or exploitation associated with drug use and the institutions to which individuals can turn for help.

Access and Free Service

ALO 191 offers free service via landline phones. It is a consultation and support line available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to anyone seeking information or wishing to overcome addiction.

ALO 191 Line (Anadolu Agency)