Free, National, and 24-Hour Alcohol Abuse Hotline Numbers

If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol misuse, you’re not alone, and support is available. Free, confidential alcohol abuse hotlines operate 24/7 to provide guidance, information, and connection to treatment options. Whether you’re looking for answers, help for yourself, or support for someone else, making a call could be the first step toward lasting recovery.

Free National 24-Hour Alcohol Abuse and Addiction Hotline Numbers

These national hotlines are free, confidential, and available 24/7. They can provide support, resources, and referrals for people experiencing alcohol misuse or other related concerns. In the event of an emergency, call 911.

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
  • 1 (800) 662-HELP (4357)
  • Free, 24/7 support for individuals and families facing substance use or mental health challenges. Offers referrals to local treatment and support resources.

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
  • 988
  • Provides free, 24/7 crisis support for anyone in emotional distress. Not limited to suicide prevention—also supports those experiencing substance use issues.

• Boys Town National Hotline
  • 1 (800) 448-3000
  • Free, 24/7 crisis and support line for youth who are at risk or have run away. Can help connect teens to resources for substance use.

• National Runaway Safeline
  • 1 (800) RUNAWAY (786-2929)
  • Free, 24/7 crisis and support line for youth who are at risk or have run away. Can help connect teens to resources for substance use.

• Partnership to End Addiction Helpline
  • Text CONNECT to 55753
  • Connects parents and caregivers to personalized guidance via text or email. Staffed by specialists trained in addiction support.

• Veterans Crisis Line
  • Dial 988, then press 1
  • 24/7 support for veterans and their families—includes help for alcohol use and co-occurring mental health concerns.

What Is an Alcohol Abuse Hotline or Helpline Number?

An alcohol abuse hotline or helpline is a phone-based support service that offers information and assistance related to alcohol misuse. Many hotlines are toll-free and operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Depending on the organization that runs the service, hotline staff may offer:

• Information about alcohol use disorder (AUD) and its symptoms.
• Referrals to alcohol rehab centers or support groups.
• Guidance on how to help a loved one who’s struggling.

If you or someone close to you needs support, calling an alcohol addiction helpline is a compassionate and confidential way to connect with someone who can help.

Should You Seek Help for Alcohol Misuse?

Alcohol misuse can look different from person to person. It may not always be obvious when it’s time to seek help, but there are certain signs professionals use to assess whether someone may be living with alcohol use disorder (AUD). If you or a loved one has experienced two or more of the following symptoms within the past year, it may be time to seek professional help:¹

• Drinking alcohol in larger amounts than intended.
• Craving alcohol.
• Persistently wanting to or unsuccessfully trying to decrease or control alcohol use.
• Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from alcohol.
• Using alcohol repeatedly in dangerous situations.
• Continuing to use alcohol even though it is causing or worsening trouble with relationships or causing other social issues.
• Having problems fulfilling important responsibilities at school, work, or home due to regular drinking.
• Stopping or decreasing important activities because of alcohol use.
• Continuing to drink even when knowing that it is likely causing or worsening a physical or psychological problem.
• Experiencing tolerance.
• Going through withdrawal or drinking to avoid/relieve withdrawal.

Should I Call an Alcohol Abuse Hotline Number?

People suffering from alcohol misuse, as well as their family and friends, might be aware of an issue with alcohol, but they aren’t sure of how to get help. While it can be scary or uncomfortable to pick up the phone, calling an alcohol addiction hotline could be an important first step toward starting on the path to recovery. Getting the right help can provide you with the support you need to stop drinking for good.

What if I’m Uncomfortable Calling an Alcohol Helpline?

It’s normal to feel nervous about making a call. But helplines are staffed by trained professionals who are there to listen without judgment. They’ll meet you where you are—whether you’re looking for general information or ready to explore treatment options.

Some might take comfort in knowing that they aren’t the only ones placing alcoholic hotline calls. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), which operates its own helpline, reported 833,598 calls in 2020.⁴

If you’re not ready to talk, you can also explore alcohol treatment options at your own pace. You can check your insurance coverage online with American Addiction Centers (AAC), instantly and at no cost. If you do not have insurance, AAC can walk you through financing options or refer you to other affordable resources.

How to Prepare to Call an Alcohol Abuse Hotline for Help

Ready to make a call but unsure of what to ask? Questions may differ depending on whether you are speaking with someone on a general alcohol crisis hotline or somebody who works for a specific treatment facility. When speaking to someone at a general alcohol hotline, consider questions such as:

• What addiction treatment resources are in my area? The hotline staff may be able to direct you to both public and private substance abuse programs near you.
• What does addiction treatment usually entail? Many people seeking help for the first time don’t know what to expect. Make sure to ask the alcohol hotline staff any questions you have. Knowing more about what generally happens during treatment may help you feel more comfortable about going.

As for speaking with somebody associated with specific alcohol rehab facilities, questions you might want to ask could include:

• Will my insurance pay for treatment? Have your insurance card ready so that you can give as much information as is needed to determine your coverage.
• What types of treatment are available? This may include inpatient or outpatient services and other amenities.
• How long does treatment typically take? The length of treatment will depend on the level of care as assessed by a professional. Be sure to ask what options the rehab facility has for treatment length to ensure that you’ll have access to the proper level of care.
• Will I have to go through detox? Ask if the rehab facility includes drug or alcohol detox, which is often an important first phase of recovery before entering other forms of treatment.
• Where is the facility located? Some people prefer to stay close to home while in treatment. Others may prefer to be in an environment separate from their daily life to focus on their recovery.
• How much does addiction treatment cost? Treatment cost varies depending on a number of factors, including the facility, type of treatment, amenities, location, and other services. You may be looking for free or low-cost rehab treatment near you, or for specialized programs like holistic treatment programs. Be sure to ask if the facility offers financing, payment plans, or grants that may assist with covering the cost of treatment.

You don’t need to have all the answers right now. A few minutes of preparation can help you feel more confident, but the most important thing is just making the call.

You can also receive 24/7 text support at your convenience with American Addiction Centers. Our team is well prepared to advise on all things treatment and help you find the care you need. We’ve helped thousands recover from addiction and we can help you too. You can contact AAC for free at .