Opioid helplines offer a starting point for individuals dealing with substance abuse disorder (SUD). They help those struggling with addiction find a safe place to confide in experts and get the information they need to start treatment. In addition, loved ones of people with opioid addiction can receive valuable advice and support by contacting a hotline.1

Opioid abuse is a problem that many Americans deal with. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, it is estimated that two million Americans are addicted to opioids, with nearly a hundred people in the US dying daily from an opioid overdose on average.2

What Can I Expect From an Opioid Addiction Treatment Hotline?

When you call an opioid hotline, you can expect to have a conversation with a trained professional who will listen to your concerns and provide support and resources needed. The structure of the conversation is strictly confidential and in general, may include some or all of the following elements:3,4

Initial assessment, where you will be asked about your symptoms and whether or not you are currently experiencing any withdrawal symptoms. This is important because withdrawal can be very uncomfortable and even dangerous in some cases, so it’s critical to get help right away if this is the case.
Discussion of your treatment history and any medications that you may have tried in the past. This information can be very helpful in determining the best course of action for your situation.
Discussion of your specific needs, goals, and concerns when it comes to opioid detox or treatment. This can include things like whether you prefer an outpatient or inpatient program, what types of therapies you are interested in pursuing, and so on.
Recommendations for treatment facilities based on your specific circumstances and needs, such as rehab tailored to couples or veteran-oriented programs, as well as information about available support services such as counseling or therapy groups that may be helpful to you during your recovery journey.
Assurance that help is available 24/7 and that you will not be judged regardless of the choices you have made in the past with regard to opioid use. The goal of an opiate addiction hotline is simply to provide you with the guidance and support needed to make informed decisions about your treatment options.
Referral to a treatment facility or other resources as needed, including information on how to reach out for additional help if you have any questions or concerns after leaving the hotline call.

Why Should I Call an Opioid Hotline for Help?

An opioid addiction hotline is a valuable resource for people struggling with addiction or anyone concerned about someone who may be abusing opioids. Opioids are powerful drugs that can have a dramatic and devastating effect on the body and mind, and left untreated, they can quickly spiral out of control.3

Opioid hotlines are for people struggling and looking for help, not for individuals who are experiencing a drug overdose. In a life-threatening situation, you need to call 911 immediately. The emergency services will arrive shortly to take adequate action.3

The first step to getting help is simple, and it’s to call an opioid helpline. You may feel shame or embarrassment, but the admission navigators are there to assist you, not judge. The first step to overcoming opiate addiction is to seek help from those who can support you. By connecting with others, you can avoid the long-term negative consequences of addiction.3

Call an opioid hotline if you or someone you love is:5

Looking for 24 hrs opioid addiction hotline

In need of support and consolation

Concerned that the substance abuse has gotten out of control

Not capable of stopping taking opioids

Looking to get professional assistance but doesn’t know who to turn to

Suspicious that their loved one is experiencing is becoming an opioid addict

What Are the Main Signs of Opioid Addiction?

Opioid addiction, also known as opioid use disorder, refers to a condition in which an individual is unable to stop using opioid drugs. The hallmark sign of this type of addiction is compulsive drug seeking and abuse despite harmful consequences. These behaviors can lead an individual into a cycle of physical dependence and withdrawal that may culminate in poor mental and physical health. Opioids affect the brain by mimicking natural painkillers like endorphins.1

These drugs also induce feelings of euphoria and relaxation that contribute to their recreational use. Though opioids are effective medications for treating pain, they are typically prescribed only when the benefits outweigh the risks for a specific patient. Misusing or abusing these substances puts people at risk of developing a dependency on them.1

An individual struggling with opiate addiction may not show clear signs immediately. However, as time goes on, they may develop certain behaviors indicating they may need help. Some of these signs include:4

Failing to keep their use in check
Uncontrollable cravings
Sleep pattern changes
Drowsiness
Sudden weight loss
Regular flu-like symptoms
Disassociating from friends and family
Financial struggles
Poor hygiene
Reduced libido

Do I Need Opioid Addiction Treatment?

If you or someone close to you is experiencing any negative symptoms due to their opioid use, you can consider contacting an opiate addiction hotline. Even if you only use them occasionally, you may eventually become addicted. It’s vital to be honest with yourself about how your use affects your life and how severe it is. The first step in getting help is to get information. You don’t have to call a hotline, but the information may prove valuable in the way you perceive your addiction and prompt you or your loved one to start the journey to recovery through inpatient treatment.3

If you ever feel like you need to speak with someone, remember that there are confidential hotlines available. The professionals on the other end of the line will give an expert perspective of your situation without being judgmental. Additionally, the opiate withdrawal process can be quite painful and potentially dangerous. So while it is possible to stop use of opiates on your own, having help will increase your chances of success.3

A hotline will typically provide valuable information, including:

Various types of treatment settings that are available
How to choose the right program for your needs
The benefits of getting treatment and its track record of successful methods
What happens during oxycodone detox, heroin treatment and withdrawal, or other the treatment of opioids such as fentanyl.
General opiate addiction data

What Are the Common Fears and Misconceptions When Calling the Opioid Helpline?

Like any other type of opiate addiction helpline, there are certain misconceptions and fears associated with calling a hotline. Here at some of the common ones:2

Fear of judgment or embarrassment: Many people who struggle with addiction worry that they will be judged or embarrassed if they reach out to a helpline for support. However, good hotlines promote non-judgmental listening, confidentiality, and empathy, which can help put your mind at ease when you need it most.
Fear of being labeled as an addict: It can be scary to admit you have a problem with drugs because there is often a stigma attached to addiction. However, calling a helpline shows that an individual is ready to start taking steps to overcome their substance abuse and get the necessary help.
Fear of being told what to do: If you have tried other treatment options in the past and didn’t find success, it can make sense to worry about having someone else tell you what to do or how to get sober. However, professional 24-hr opioid helplines offer many different types of therapy options that may suit your needs better than the previous methods you have tried.
Fear that treatment won’t work for me: Many people who struggle with addiction don’t believe there is any hope for them. Opioid addiction can be treated, and many people recover from it successfully. If you have tried to get sober before without success, your addiction was likely more severe than you realized. Professionals that you call can help find a treatment option for you that is best suited to your individual needs and prepare you for the road to recovery.

How Can I Find an Opioid Rehab Nearby?

When searching for a suitable opioid dependence treatments, it’s critical to consider several factors before choosing a rehab, such as:

Choosing a treatment center that best suits your requirements and preferences
Learning about the various aspects of treatment and how it can assist you in dealing with opiate addiction
Getting the information regarding the costs and the best way to finance it
Finding a facility with qualified and experienced staff who will assist you every step of the way
Considering the location of the treatment center

One of the easiest ways to obtain all the necessary information is to call an opioid addiction hotline. A representative would gladly help you and provide all the necessary information and they can check your benefits while you are on the phone.

If you’re questioning whether or not your insurance will cover treatment, American Addiction Centers can help by verifying your coverage. AAC has treatment facilities across the United States that specialize in quality detox and rehab. Simply fill out the online form to check if your insurance will cover the financing of your rehabilitation process.

Hotline for Opiate Addiction Treatment