Psychosocial Care, Harm Reduction & Integration
Based in Vienna, PsyCare is a non-profit harm reduction service that supports people who are having or have had challenging drug-related experiences.
PsyCare Austria cultivates a sensible approach to substance use and altered states of consciousness and also offers workshops on how to best support such experiences.
Vision
We create a space where individuals can easily access the support they need to navigate challenging drugs-related and/or psychological experiences - and where such experiences are viewed as opportunities for growth.
Mission
We provide support and information for people undergoing challenging drug-related experiences, particularly those involving psychoactive substances. We provide education to reduce the harm associated with the use of such substances. Our assistance helps reduce the number of drug-related medical interventions, hospitalizations and arrests.
Our Work
Workshops
Harm Reduction
Integration
Why is PsyCare important?
While many use substances recreationally, some, like ketamine or psilocybin mushrooms, show potential therapeutic benefits in controlled settings. However, these substances can also lead to negative experiences like fear, paranoia, and psychosis, which can put users and others at risk.
Psychedelic experiences can lead to crises requiring special intervention. Being treated by hospital staff, police, or security during such a crisis can be traumatic and cause long-term harm. PsyCare organizations work closely with medical personnel to offer compassionate care, helping individuals move from crisis to calm without sedation or hospitalization.
Our volunteers are dedicated to providing care, not judgment. We don’t promote illegal drug use, but we’re here to support people in need.
In Austria, the organization Checkit! offers drug testing as well as education about substances for free.