Green Crescent and the Fight Against Addictions

Founded in 1920, Green Crescent (Yeşilay) has been combating addictions to alcohol, tobacco, substances, gambling, and technology at both national and international levels for over a century. As one of Turkey’s oldest non-governmental organizations, it aims to create a healthy society free from addiction through projects targeting all age groups. Since 2015, Green Crescent has provided free psychological and social support to individuals struggling with addiction and their families through the Green Crescent Counseling Centers (YEDAM).

Green Crescent Counseling Centers (YEDAM)

YEDAM’s team of expert psychologists and social workers offers free support to addicted individuals and their relatives. They assess the type and severity of addiction, provide guidance to overcome harmful behaviors, and follow up to prevent relapse. YEDAM emphasizes confidentiality, conducts home visits when needed, and operates 107 centers across Turkey and Northern Cyprus, accessible via the free 115 Counseling Line.

About Green Crescent

Green Crescent works to protect society from harmful habits without discrimination, prioritizing human dignity and moral values. Initially established to fight alcohol addiction, it has expanded to tackle tobacco, substance, gambling, and technology addictions. The organization has 120 branches in Turkey and is represented in 97 countries worldwide.

It also operates 40-bed Rehabilitation Centers in Bursa and Diyarbakır for inpatient treatment of alcohol and substance addictions. Due to its long-standing efforts to prevent addiction and raise awareness, Green Crescent has been recognized as a “Public Benefit Society” since 1934 and holds Special Consultative Status with the UN ECOSOC as well as the EFQM Turkey Excellence Award.