Drug rehabilitation in Luxembourg is facing a combination of increasing demand and evolving social pressures. While treatment centres continue to adapt, professionals on the ground warn that existing resources may no longer be sufficient to meet current needs. Among them is Gregory Lambrette, Chargé de Direction and psychotherapist, at Arcus ASBL, who described a system under mounting strain due to waiting lists, limited housing opportunities, and a population of users whose situations are becoming progressively more complex.
In a conversation about the challenges facing addiction services today, Lambrette drew attention to the structural gaps that hinder long-term recovery, as well as misconceptions that still shape public attitudes towards addiction.
One of the most pressing issues, according to Lambrette, is the difficulty people encounter when trying to access hospitals, detox units, treatment facilities, or accommodation services. These obstacles are not merely administrative delays but significant barriers to recovery. “The main difficulties we encounter are related to waiting lists for access to hospitals, treatment facilities, and also accommodation facilities”, said Lambrette.
Such delays can drastically alter the trajectory of a person’s treatment, particularly for those seeking help at a moment of crisis.
Another trend is the increasing complexity of users’ situations. Many people presenting at services today face multiple layers of vulnerability, which in turn require tailored, long-term support plans. Lambrette observed that precarity is rising among those seeking help, adding that social isolation, or desocialisation, is becoming more common.
According to him, this manifests in a growing difficulty for some individuals to maintain or build social relationships, which can complicate reintegration efforts.
Despite these challenges, Lambrette emphasised that his institution works to remain as accessible as possible. Reducing waiting times is a priority, and the centre offers consultations across the country to ensure that distance does not become an obstacle. “Our institution is relatively easy to access. We try to avoid having a waiting list so that we can respond quickly to people’s requests”, said Lambrette.
In addition to on-site appointments, teams provide on-call services in other facilities and travel to hospitals and prisons when needed.
This decentralised approach reflects an understanding that early engagement can be transformative. People often seek help at sensitive moments, and the presence of immediate support can influence whether a person continues towards a treatment path or disengages before receiving adequate care.
Public misconceptions remain a major obstacle to addressing addiction effectively. According to Lambrette, one persistent myth is the belief that addiction is simply a matter of willpower. “The most common idea is that it is a question of willpower and that if you cannot do it, it is because you lack character”, said Lambrette. He stressed that this is incorrect, even if motivation plays a role in treatment. Viewing addiction as a personal failure rather than a complex condition contributes to stigma and discourages many from seeking help early.
Another misconception is the idea that addiction only affects specific social groups. Lambrette noted that people often hold a stereotypical view of substance users, imagining them as visibly marginalised or in poor physical or psychological health. While such cases exist, he explained that they represent only a small subset of people who use psychoactive substances. “The majority of these users are integrated, work, have families and friends, and are fully integrated into society”, said Lambrette.
Over recent years, the centre has observed changes in the profile of those seeking support. Cocaine use is increasing, while heroin use appears to be declining. Alcohol consumption remains very high, as does the misuse of medication. Lambrette also highlighted the growing difficulty individuals face in securing housing, a factor that directly influences therapeutic planning. “Access to housing is becoming increasingly difficult and hinders therapeutic and reintegration projects for individuals”, said Lambrette.
At the same time, mental health issues are becoming more prevalent. Scientific studies, he explained, indicate an increase in mental-health-related concerns among people battling addiction. The combination of these factors creates a more vulnerable population, one with fewer resources and fewer opportunities to recover with dignity.
The impact of addiction extends beyond the individual, often affecting families and partners who may struggle to navigate the emotional burden of the situation. Lambrette emphasised the importance of supportive environments, noting that relatives often carry feelings of fear, guilt, or shame. “We offer support to families and friends”, said Lambrette. The centre provides sessions designed to help families understand their role, take appropriate action, or protect themselves where necessary. Having a space to speak openly about their experiences is essential, even if such conversations are not always easy.
When asked what changes could most benefit people seeking treatment, Lambrette noted that neighbouring countries have already implemented several useful measures. However, he argued that Luxembourg should expand its own resources further. More social housing would help stabilise vulnerable individuals and support reintegration. He also pointed to the need for additional detox beds and medium-term care facilities, including day centres.
Prevention, he said, must remain a cornerstone of drug policy. “We must continue to develop prevention measures for all ages and in different sectors of activity”, said Lambrette. Early education, workplace awareness campaigns, and community-based initiatives all form part of a wider effort to reduce harm and prevent long-term dependency.
In discussing aspects of Luxembourg’s drug situation that deserve more public attention, Lambrette pointed out that the country still relies on institutions abroad to treat substance users. He suggested that Luxembourg should expand its domestic structures and resources to reduce the need for cross-border treatment. This would not only ease logistical challenges for families but also strengthen continuity of care.
He also advocated for greater integration of research into everyday practice, citing examples from other countries where scientific partnerships help refine treatment approaches. Finally, he emphasised the importance of involving users in policy decisions. According to him, peer support could serve as a valuable complement to professional services and enrich the overall rehabilitation framework.
The challenges facing addiction services in Luxembourg are numerous, but they are not insurmountable. Lambrette’s testimony paints a picture of a sector that is committed, accessible, and adaptive, yet increasingly constrained by external pressures ranging from housing shortages to rising mental-health needs. Addressing these issues will require sustained policy attention, expanded infrastructure, and a continued effort to challenge persistent misconceptions about addiction.
“You have to give people the means to live with dignity”, said Lambrette. His message underscores a broader truth: effective rehabilitation is not solely about treatment, but about creating conditions in which recovery is possible and sustainable.
