The purpose of this functional thesis was to enhance substance abusers’ skills in the activities of daily living by organizing four guidance sessions. The goal was to increase substance abusers’ willingness and ability to use healthy nutrition through co-operative group activities. Based on the goals of the thesis detailed objectives of the guidance sessions were created. The aim of the guidance sessions was to provide support and encourage as well as make the substance abusers reflect on their nutritional habits. The authors’ goal was to implement solution- and resource-oriented guidance methods.

Based on research papers on the theory the authors organized four guidance sessions for Järvenpää social hospital’s clients. Guidance methods were solution- and resource-oriented which were parts of group guidance. In addition to cooking the guidance sessions included discussion about nutrition.

The data consisted of self-assessment, observation as well as oral and written feedback from the clients. The results show that the clients’ experience of team spirit increased as the sessions progressed. The clients seemed to reflect on their own nutritional habits. The clients found this kind of activity useful. As the sessions progressed the authors felt that their guidance skills reinforced and they saw themselves growing as professionals. Guidance skills are an important part of public health nurses’ professional skills. The clients benefited from guidance sessions. These sessions increased service selection in Järvenpää social hospital. In the future Järvenpää social hospital’s clients are able to choose nutrition based activities as part of their substance rehabilitation plan.