Last updated: 18 January 2023
If you are struggling with a substance use disorder or want advice about stopping drug abuse, there are 24-hour services available across the country to help.
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What is a drug abuse hotline?
A drug abuse hotline provides information and support for all levels of substance use; including abuse, dependence, and addiction. Drug abuse hotlines specialize in offering impartial advice to help people get free of drug abuse.
Many will specialize in specific areas (such as drug abuse in teens, suicide and mental health protection) while others will offer a broad yet experienced level of guidance.
Many of the below hotlines are available 24/7 and can help you find additional resources in your area.
Hotline numbers
Below is a list of hotlines for substance use, addiction treatment, mental health, suicide prevention, and other information about addiction.
In the event of an overdose call 911
Anyone experiencing an overdose or overdose symptoms should call the emergency services at 9-1-1 immediately.
American Association of Poison Control Centers
This number offers advice and resources for those who are concerned about poisoning, including cases of drug and alcohol poisoning.
Available 24/7
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Many people who suffer from mental illnesses will abuse substances as a way of coping. Similarly, people suffering from substance use disorders may develop mental health conditions as a result.
Suicidal ideation can be a symptom of both. Speaking to someone can help with suicidal thoughts.
Available 24/7
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
SAMHSA offers advice and referrals for those suffering from mental health disorders or substance use disorders.
Available 24/7
The Partnership for a Drug-Free America
This helpline is intended to offer free advice about drug abuse and treatment for those suffering from a substance use disorder as well as family and friends. They are not linked to any rehab facilities and are intended as an information and advice resource.
Available business hours
The National Mental Health Association
Available during business hours
The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD)
Available business hours
Boys Town National Hotline
Text service available
Covenant House Teen Hotline (NineLine)
Text service available
Crisis Text Line
The Crisis Text Line offers advice and referrals for all manner of crises, including those relating to drugs and alcohol.
Text ‘HOME’ to 741741
Available 24/7
National Drug Helpline
Offering help and resources for all those affected by drug and alcohol addiction, including family and friends of addicts.
Available 24/7
National Institute of Mental Health Information Resource Center
A resource for all manner of mental health services, including resources for crisis prevention.
Business Hours (online service available)
When should I call a drug abuse hotline?
Knowing whether you have a substance use disorder or not can be difficult. What may feel like casual or recreational use of a substance can quickly develop into dependence or addiction, often without the person realizing before it is too late.
Calling a drug helpline can help you know if you are starting to develop a problem. They can also give advice on drug abuse to family and friends who may be concerned about someone, including signs and indicators of addiction as well as available treatment options.
There are several signs that substance abuse is developing into dependence and addiction. Take our drug addiction self-assessment to see if you have a substance addiction.
What happens when I call a drug abuse helpline?
When you call a drug helpline, a trained member of staff will be able to offer advice and information on a range of topics, depending on your needs. They will be able to tell you about:
When you call a drug or alcohol addiction hotline number, a trained staff member will provide information on a wide variety of topics:
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Treatment options for addiction and substance abuse
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How to help a family member or loved one
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What inpatient rehabs/outpatient clinics are available in your area
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What you should consider when choosing an addiction center
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How to prevent dependence and addiction from forming
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How to get access to 12-Step programs and support groups in your area (such as AA or Nar-Anon)
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What to do if you relapse
When calling a helpline, be honest about your substance abuse and your concerns. Helpline operators offer impartial advice and will not judge the person on the other end of the line. They are there to help and will try their best to address your concerns and get you to the right treatment option (if that’s what you need).
If you are looking for advice about addiction treatment in your area, visit our rehab directory. We have listings of thousands of substance use disorder resources across the country and endeavor to connect people to the treatment they need.
