Illinois Addiction Hotlines

America has a severe addiction problem, and Illinois is no exception. Substance abuse is among the top health concerns in the state. This year, 12.42% of residents reported illicit drug use sometime during the last month, per the CDC. A total of 3,762 residents died from overdoses in 2021 alone. Data is not yet available for last year.

Unfortunately, addiction has a grip not just on Illinois, but on all of America. Fortunately, there is help. Below are three completely free resources for substance abuse available to residents of the Prairie State. Addiction is a disease, and the cure begins with helping yourself. We aim to be part of that help.

Illinois National Rehab Hotline

Available 24/7, the Illinois Addiction Hotline is free and anonymous for any resident to receive assistance with addiction. Call 866-210-1303 anytime to be connected with a specialist who will listen and help in any way possible. The website also offers links to helpful resources and much more. Call now. Help is standing by.

Illinois Helpline

Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Human Services, state residents can call 833-234-6343 or text “HELP” to 833234 to be connected with a helpline specialist, with or without insurance, anytime. There’s also an online chat feature (and more) on the website.

Area 19 Alcoholics Anonymous

There’s a good chance you’ve heard of AA, which stands for Alcoholics Anonymous. It’s a free-to-join public discussion group focused on recovery. The greater Chicago area features its own AA group, known as Area 19. Call 312-346-1475 Monday through Friday, 8AM to 5PM for more information, or visit their website.