Why Do People in Poland Speak About Alcohol and Drugs in Hushed Tones?

In Poland, addiction to alcohol and drugs is still surrounded by taboo. In many families, the topic is rarely discussed openly — “what will people say?”, “it’s embarrassing,” or “it doesn’t concern us.”

Yet silence does not solve the problem. In fact, it often makes it worse. The lack of open conversation leaves people struggling with addiction feeling lonely and even more isolated.

Alcohol in Polish Culture – From Celebration to Social Problem

For generations, alcohol has been deeply rooted in Polish culture. It accompanies holidays, weddings, family gatherings, and business events. Phrases like “have a drink for your health” or “it doesn’t count without a toast” are familiar to many of us.

Unfortunately, behind this “tradition” lies a difficult truth: the ease with which alcohol is consumed makes the line between occasional drinking and the beginning of addiction dangerously thin.

Social pressure also plays a role. When someone chooses not to drink, they may hear, “What do you mean you’re not drinking?” This can lead to misunderstanding and exclusion for those trying to stay sober.

Drugs – A Silent but Present Issue

For a long time, drugs were barely part of public discussion in Poland. While alcohol is openly talked about, drugs are usually mentioned only in the context of scandals or tragedies.

Meanwhile, access to psychoactive substances among young people is increasing. Contrary to stereotypes, this is not just a problem in large cities — it is also present in smaller towns and rural areas.

The lack of reliable education means many young people learn about drugs from peers or the internet, which significantly increases the risk of experimentation.

Why Is It So Difficult to Talk Openly?

There are several reasons why addiction is often swept under the rug:

• Fear of judgment — families worry about stigma and prefer to pretend the problem does not exist.

• The belief “it doesn’t concern us” — until it affects us personally, it is easy to think the problem is somewhere far away.

• A cultural tendency to avoid difficult conversations — instead of addressing issues directly, many prefer to act as if everything is fine.

Unfortunately, this approach often means people seek help only when their situation has already become severe.

How Can We Break the Taboo?

The first step is education — both in schools and within families. Children and adolescents should learn early what addiction is, how it develops, and what consequences it can bring.

The second step is open dialogue — without blame or judgment, but with empathy and understanding.

Finally, professional support is essential. Centers such as Monar have been helping people struggling with addiction and their families overcome shame and find a path toward recovery and freedom for many years.

Summary

Alcohol and drugs remain difficult topics in Polish society — surrounded by stereotypes, shame, and silence. But as long as we avoid honest discussion, the problem will continue to grow.

Breaking the taboo is not only a step toward better prevention — it is a chance to save lives and protect the health of thousands of people.

👉 If you or someone close to you is struggling with addiction, remember — you are not alone. At Monar in Kębliny near Łódź, you will find support, therapy, and people who understand what you are going through.