Pennsylvania Substance Abuse & Drug Addiction Hotlines

Reaching out for help with alcohol or drug addiction is a life-changing decision — which makes calling a substance abuse hotline for Pennsylvania residents a courageous decision. If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone; support is available.

Pennsylvania has been significantly affected by the opioid epidemic. In 2019 alone, there were 3,034 drug overdose deaths involving opioids, and approximately 39,000 Pennsylvania residents aged 18 and older reported using heroin within the last year in 2022. Alcohol abuse is also a significant problem in Pennsylvania, with 2,928 deaths and 66,249 years of potential life lost due to excessive alcohol use in 2018.

Pennsylvania is ranked No. 17 in the nation, with the number of residents experiencing mental illness at just under 20%. Of those, just over half are going untreated, while another 25.7% are only able to receive partial treatment for their condition. While the Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania (HAP) is working to improve those numbers by increasing the care available to those who need it, Pennsylvania mental health hotlines are a lifeline for those who need assistance immediately and can’t wait for delayed in-person appointments.

For rapid mental health support, Pennsylvania residents have several helplines available that offer crisis support or just a sympathetic ear when times feel overwhelming. Some provide information on resources available in your area that you can access for follow-up care or help initiating a care plan to prevent future struggles. These hotlines are often available 24-7 and guarantee confidentiality, so you can speak candidly about your situation. If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, reach out for help from the appropriate organization so you don’t have to try to navigate the situation alone.

Free Rehabs in Pennsylvania

Access to treatment and recovery services is crucial in addressing addiction. In Pennsylvania, efforts have been made to expand access to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and other evidence-based interventions for individuals struggling with addiction. This has given rise to free rehabs in Pennsylvania and many insurer-paid treatment programs. Some avenues to consider when looking for rehab options include:

  • State-funded treatment programs. Pennsylvania offers state-funded treatment programs that provide low or no-cost services to eligible individuals.
  • Nonprofit organizations. Several nonprofit organizations in Pennsylvania offer sliding-scale fee services or entirely free addiction treatment programs supported by donations, grants or government funding.
  • Faith-based programs. Some churches and religious organizations in Pennsylvania provide free or low-cost addiction treatment programs as part of their community outreach efforts.
  • Community health centers. Community health centers in Pennsylvania offer behavioral health services, including addiction treatment on a sliding-scale fee basis, aiming to make health care more accessible to underserved populations.
  • Support groups. Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide free peer support meetings, serving as supplementary resources for those unable to access formal treatment programs or seeking ongoing support post-rehab.

Individuals seeking affordable addiction treatment in Pennsylvania can research and reach out to these resources for guidance and assistance tailored to their needs.

Free Rehabs in Pennsylvania

  • Daystar Center for Spiritual Recovery (Harrisburg)
    This nonprofit treatment center offers addiction and mental health recovery programs using a holistic approach. Providing residential treatment, inpatient therapies and medication-assisted treatment (MAT), plans typically last between 3 and 6 months. Fees can be covered through state health insurance programs, including Medicaid, along with federal funding for those who are unable to pay out of pocket.
    (717) 230-9898
  • Public Health Management – CHANCES (Philadelphia)
    This health care network qualifies for government funding to cover treatment costs for mental health and substance abuse recovery. Levels of care include MAT, inpatient, residential, outpatient and partial hospitalization programs (PHP) and a variety of therapy options depending on the intensity you need. Primary care and chronic disease management are also available for those who can’t afford other facilities.
    (215) 923-0218
  • Gaudenzia (Harrisburg)
    Gaudenzia is a nonprofit facility that provides treatment options for addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders. There are several locations throughout Pennsylvania, and the centers are an excellent resource for those seeking treatment who’ve been in the legal system. Providing detox services, residential and outpatient programs, PHP, MAT therapies and transitional housing, fees are covered through Pennsylvania Medicaid and government funding.
    (833) 976-4357

Addiction Help and Substance Abuse Hotlines in Pennsylvania

The invaluable resources below are offered free of charge to individuals grappling with substance abuse within the Keystone State.

  • Pennsylvania National Rehab Hotline
    For residents of Pennsylvania seeking assistance with addiction, the Pennsylvania Addiction Hotline operates around the clock and provides anonymity at no cost. When reaching out to this hotline, individuals can connect with dedicated specialists prepared to offer support and guidance at any hour. Additionally, the hotline’s website curates useful resources and additional information. Don’t hesitate to reach out; help awaits. Make the call now, knowing that assistance is readily available.
    (866) 210-1303
  • DDAP Helpline
    For residents in need of support, the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs operates a substance abuse hotline in Pennsylvania that’s accessible to all. Reach out by phone or explore its website for a wealth of valuable resources and information tailored to your needs.
    (800) 662-4357
  • Penn Foundation
    Pennsylvania residents experiencing a mental health or substance abuse emergency can call the Penn Foundation crisis hotline 24-7 to reach a trained crisis worker. If emergency intervention is needed, staff will coordinate with the caller to get them to their nearest emergency room for assistance.
    (215) 257-6551
  • Lenape Valley Foundation (Bucks County)
    This Pennsylvania crisis helpline provides mobile crisis intervention services to anyone in the county experiencing mental struggles who requires immediate assistance. Services include initial assessment, referral to the appropriate service providers, crisis counseling, follow-up and access to any emergency services that may be needed.
    (800) 499-7455
  • Pennsylvania 988
    Dialing 988 will connect you with a mental health professional trained in suicide prevention and crisis support. All calls are completely confidential, and mobile crisis dispatch options are available if you or someone you know is in need of in-person crisis assessment. This program also provides follow-up contact when needed.
    988

Calling Is the First Step

If you’re struggling to find a hotline that serves your area or you aren’t getting the experience you need to help you through your crisis, reach out to the National Rehab Hotline. Our trained and compassionate staff are available 24-7 to take your confidential call and assess your situation. We’ll help you connect with support resources in your area that can provide the tools you need to help you navigate your mental health recovery journey.