All subjects were interviewed in the Hague, Netherlands, and the sample included 83 heroin addicts who were paid for their participation. Subjects were interviewed by a psychologist and a community fieldworker. Data analysis concentrated on severity of problems, concerning regarding problems, and need for help. Results showed heroin addicts in the community were different from treatment-seeking addicts. The community group was characterized by lower severity ratings for drug use problems, but this group surprisingly expressed more concern about and need for help with family problems, occupational functioning, and physical health compared to the methadone group. The methadone group experienced the least amount of drug-related problems. The most important reason for asking for professional help involved concern about drug use. Psychological and social problems were more frequently reported by heroin addicts applying for inpatient treatment. Occupational, health, and legal problems did not appear to be triggers for seeking professional help. Implications of the study findings are examined in terms of improving outreach and treatment programs for drug addicts. 24 references, 5 tables, and 5 figures