From High Barrier to Daily Companion: Reinventing VAD’s Self-Help Tool for Alcohol and Drugs
Key takeaways
VAD – De Druglijn needed to replace their outdated self-help tool for people struggling with alcohol or drug use. The old version wasn’t mobile-friendly, demanded lengthy intakes, and had high drop-out rates. Together, we built a new mobile-first platform with a short intake, immediate feedback, a daily logbook, and privacy by design. The result is a safe, intuitive, and scientifically grounded tool that motivates users to return, offering a powerful first step towards behavior change. The tool will soon to be scaled internationally.
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Client
VAD
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Services
User interface design — Gamification — Impact —
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Links
Online zelfhulp
Lowering the barrier for people at a sensitive crossroads
For many people, reaching out for help with alcohol or drugs is already a major hurdle. The existing online tool, however, made things even harder. Users faced dozens of questions before receiving feedback, while the lack of mobile support made daily engagement impractical. As a result, most abandoned the process before seeing any benefit. For VAD – De Druglijn, this was a crucial moment: they needed a tool that felt safe, approachable, and motivating, while remaining scientifically reliable and entirely anonymous.
“For many people, this tool is their very first step in acknowledging their use. We wanted to make that step as low-threshold, safe, and supportive as possible.”
Katrien, VAD – De Druglijn
Balancing scientific rigor with accessible design
We started by mapping the old tool’s flows and identifying where users dropped off. From there, we designed a mobile-first experience with a calm, low-stimulus interface aligned with De Druglijn’s new brand identity. Strategically, we combined short, motivating steps with the robust backbone of validated questionnaires and algorithms. Built with privacy by design, the tool guarantees complete anonymity while offering users immediate feedback, daily tracking, and access to scientifically grounded exercises.
From drop-out to daily engagement
The new self-help tool feels approachable and motivating, lowering the barrier for people to take their first steps towards change. Users now receive instant insights from a short intake, can commit to personal goals, and track their patterns in a simple mobile diary. For VAD – De Druglijn, it means reaching more people in need, offering effective support earlier, and preparing for international rollout to Ireland.
“The platform now feels modern, safe, and clear. You can tell it was designed with respect for the user and the sensitivity of the topic.”
Anonymous user
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