Established in 2016, Kosmicare is a pioneering non-profit organization in Portugal dedicated to harm reduction and peer support for individuals who use drugs. Its mission is to transform drug policies and empower users by promoting health, safety, inclusiveness, and care through evidence-based practices.

Before we go further, first a little backstory: Portugal is globally recognized for its groundbreaking approach to drug policy. In 2001, the country decriminalized the personal use and possession of all drugs, shifting from a punitive model to one focused on public health and harm reduction. Rather than treating drug use as a criminal issue, Portugal views it as a public health concern and offers support, treatment, and education to reduce the harm associated with substance use. This innovative policy has led to significant declines in drug-related deaths, HIV infections, and incarceration rates while fostering a compassionate and evidence-based framework for addressing drug use. Within this progressive environment, institutions like Kosmicare thrive.

History and Evolution

Kosmicare’s roots trace back to 2002 when it began as a psychedelic emergency service at Portugal’s Boom Festival, a psychedelic trance music and culture festival that attracts more than 30,000 people together every two years. With support from the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), Kosmicare provided a safe space for individuals experiencing challenging psychedelic experiences and offered care and support in a non-judgmental environment.

Over the years, Kosmicare’s role at Boom Festival expanded as they incorporated harm reduction strategies such as drug testing, information dissemination, and outreach services. In 2016, recognizing the need for year-round services beyond the festival environment, Kosmicare was officially established as an NGO. This transition allowed the organization to extend its services to the broader community, advocating for humanistic and evidence-based drug policies throughout Portugal.

Services Offered

Kosmicare provides a comprehensive range of services aimed at reducing the potential risks associated with drug use and promoting well-being:

• Drug Checking – Operating the only service of its kind in Portugal, Kosmicare’s laboratory offers private and anonymous drug checking. This service enables individuals to verify the contents of their substances, identifying unexpected compounds or adulterants, thereby facilitating informed decision-making and enhancing safety.
• Counseling – Recognizing the complex relationship individuals may have with drug use, Kosmicare offers psychological support through appointments with psychologists and psychiatrists. Whether individuals aim to reduce usage, manage it more effectively, or simply discuss their experiences, the organization provides personalized plans tailored to each person’s needs.
• Training for Teams – Kosmicare offers specialized harm reduction training for teams looking to understand the potential risks of drug use and strategies to mitigate them. This training is particularly beneficial for organizations aiming to improve their handling of situations related to alcohol, drugs, or gender-based violence.
• Psychedelic Emergency Services – Continuing its legacy from Boom Festival, Kosmicare provides support for individuals undergoing challenging psychedelic experiences. By offering safe spaces and empathetic assistance, the organization helps individuals navigate and integrate these experiences constructively.

Community Engagement and Advocacy

Beyond direct services, Kosmicare is actively involved in advocacy and community engagement. The organization champions the rights of individuals to use drugs in various contexts without facing discrimination or coercion. By promoting harm reduction as the cornerstone of humane and evidence-based drug policies, Kosmicare aims to influence policy changes that prioritize health and well-being over punitive measures.

Kosmicare collaborates with other community-based organizations and health services to address emerging trends, such as the practice of chemsex. By coordinating responses and providing tailored services, the organization ensures comprehensive support for individuals engaging in such practices. Engaging in research initiatives, Kosmicare contributes to the broader understanding of drug use patterns, harm reduction strategies, and the effectiveness of peer support models. Their publications serve as valuable resources for professionals and the public alike.

Accessing Kosmicare’s Services

Individuals interested in utilizing Kosmicare’s services can do so through various channels:

• In-Person Visits – Kosmicare’s facility is located at R. Cesário Verde 17B in Lisbon. The center operates on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4 pm to 9 pm, offering walk-in services for drug checking and counseling.
• Appointments – For personalized counseling sessions or team training, individuals and organizations can request appointments by contacting Kosmicare directly via email at [email protected] or by phone at +351 916 470 305.

Supporting Kosmicare

As a grassroots organization, Kosmicare relies on donations to maintain and expand its services. Supporters can contribute via PayPal or bank transfer, with details available on their website. These contributions enable Kosmicare to remain independent and advocate more effectively for change in drug policies and practices.

Final Thoughts

Kosmicare is a pioneer in progressive harm reduction and peer support in Portugal. Through its comprehensive services, advocacy efforts, and community engagement, the organization plays a crucial role in promoting health, safety, and inclusiveness for individuals who use drugs. By focusing on evidence-based practices and humanistic policies, Kosmicare exemplifies a compassionate approach to drug use and emphasizes support over judgment and empowerment over stigmatization. By providing these accessible services, Kosmicare continues to support individuals in making informed decisions, promoting health, safety, and inclusiveness within the community.