According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health conducted in 2022, more than 17% of Americans over the age of 12 were recorded as having a substance abuse problem. Depending on the area you’re in, seeking help with addiction may be difficult due to a lack of access to facilities and professionals dedicated to tackling this issue. Fortunately, contacting a substance abuse hotline is an immediate action that can connect you by phone with trained professionals who can help talk you through your cravings and provide you with resources that offer more long-term relief.
Purposes of a Substance Abuse Hotline
If you frequently use illicit substances or take more prescribed medications than ordered by your doctor, you may be suffering from a substance abuse problem. Seeking out and using these substances despite experiencing consequences in your daily life is a hallmark sign of addiction. This is especially true if you’ve developed a tolerance that requires increasing your intake, and you may find yourself unable to stop on your own. This can be a difficult position to navigate without help, so reaching out to an addiction helpline to learn your options is the first step needed to take back control of your life.
What Happens When You Call a Substance Abuse Hotline?
When you reach out to an addiction hotline, you’re connected with a caring individual who’s ready to listen to your story and try to understand the best way to help you. The person answering your call has training in drug abuse support and may even have personal experience working through addiction or assisting someone close to them. You’re provided with accurate information about your addiction and any options available to you to assist with your recovery. This could include referrals to counselors, outpatient treatment centers or inpatient rehabilitation facilities in your area. Acknowledging a problem and making the call is the first step in your recovery. Once you feel strong enough, follow up with any resources offered, and start creating the life you deserve.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Support Options
You may be referred to several treatment options to help you work through your addiction and find a healthier and more balanced approach to your life. Many of these resources can be combined to increase your chance of success and provide the tools you need to prevent relapse when life feels overwhelming.
- Substance abuse hotline. Hotlines for substance abuse are a great first point of contact because you can speak anonymously with someone trained in addiction support and learn about the treatment options available to you in your area. Most are available 24-7, so these are great resources when you need someone to talk you through a tough moment.
- Therapy/counseling. Addiction often goes hand in hand with mental health struggles, so addressing the mental component in a healthy way can help prevent the need to seek an escape through addiction. Whether you’re experiencing an undiagnosed mental disorder that needs to be treated or simply need help developing less harmful coping skills, therapy can help you identify the problem so you can find the right solution.
- Medically assisted detox. If you’re worried about the difficulties of withdrawal, opting for a medically assisted detox provides a more comfortable option to get through this barrier under medical supervision. You get relief from withdrawal symptoms and can feel safe knowing medical staff is there to make sure nothing goes wrong.
- Outpatient treatment. Outpatient options provide the care you need without full disruption of your daily life. This includes scheduled visits to keep up with counseling and medical care while allowing you to remain at home and continue working between these appointments. This is often suggested as a step-down option after residential treatment programs, providing an easier transition back into your daily routine.
- Residential treatment. These are inpatient treatment programs that require living on-site in a controlled environment so you can dedicate yourself completely to your recovery. The length of your stay depends on your level of addiction and participation in program activities.
- Support groups. Support groups allow you to spend time with others experiencing similar struggles so you can share your story without judgment and lean on one another to maintain your progress. Options are often available for your loved ones as well so they can connect with others and learn the best ways to support your journey.
National Rehab Hotline
Our substance abuse hotline is a valuable resource for individuals struggling with addiction, providing free online resources and treatment locations nationwide. The hotline is available 24-7, so you can seek support whenever you need it.
The National Rehab Hotline offers a wide range of resources, including information on addiction and recovery, support groups and treatment options. It can also help you find treatment centers and other support services in your area.
Reaching out for the first time can feel like the most difficult step, but it’s also the most important. Gaining control over your life allows you to find the happiness and fulfillment you deserve, and many tools are available to help you get there. Take advantage of the free and confidential assistance offered by National Rehab Hotline and start your path to recovery by calling today.