Helpline
Call 1.855.378.4373 to schedule a call time with a specialist or visit scheduler.drugfree.org
Helpline

    COVID-19: We Are Here for You

    In this uncertain time, we know your top concern is keeping your family and community safe and healthy. We are dedicated to ensuring you have the support and information you need to address substance use and addiction – from prevention to recovery – amid the challenging new circumstances surrounding COVID-19.

    Text messaging support programs

    For parents & caregivers concerned about a loved one’s substance use

    Receive regular messages on how to help yourself and your loved one during these challenging times. Topics include how to communicate effectively, how to deal with a family member risking exposure to COVID-19, how to model healthy coping behaviors and more. Text COVID to 55753 to get started.

    For anyone struggling with increased alcohol use

    If you or a loved one is drinking more as a result of social isolation or other issues related to COVID-19, sign up for our free alcohol text messaging program to promote reduction or abstinence. Text REDUCE to 55753 to get started.

    Connect with a specialist

    Our helpline remains open and available. If you are having difficulty accessing support for your family, or a loved one struggling with addiction faces care or treatment challenges resulting from COVID-19 circumstances, our specialists are here to guide you.

    Support is available in English and Spanish, from 9:00am-midnight ET weekdays and noon-5:00pm ET on weekends. Connect now using any of the following options:

    Online support community

    In response to the uncertainty and circumstances surrounding COVID-19, we are hosting a series of free, supportive online gatherings for parents and caregivers designed to help you connect with others, and gain helpful insight and ideas. Learn more >>

    Prevention

    Helpful perspective and guidance on preventing substance use against the backdrop of COVID-19.

    Worried About COVID-19, School and Substance Use? One of Our Specialists Offers Advice.

    We chatted with one of our helpline specialists, Deb Drache, to learn more about the concerns she’s hearing as families transition back into a most unusual school year.

    Learn more
    In a Time of Disruption, Protecting Your Child from the Risks of Substance Use

    What can parents and other caregivers do to reduce the potential that children – who are feeling frustrated, isolated and bored – might engage in substance use?

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    COVID-19 is a Good Reason to Help Your Child Quit (or Never Start) Vaping

    If you have previously asked your child to quit or cut back without the result you’d hoped for, the circumstances surrounding COVID-19 present a good opportunity to try again.

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    Welcoming An Adult Child Back Home Because of COVID-19

    Is you adult-aged child back home unexpectedly? We recommend a conversation about shared expectations and how you will live together.

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    Treatment & recovery

    Expert guidance on addressing addiction amid challenging new circumstances.

    Special Considerations When Seeking Substance Use Treatment During COVID-19

    Many treatment programs are still open and accepting patients. If your child is currently out of school or work, it may be an ideal time to encourage them to attend a program.

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    Telehealth for Addiction

    Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of telehealth will help you decide how to best use these services for you and your family.

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    COVID-19: Online and Remote Resources for Addiction Support

    While addiction thrives in isolation, connection nurtures recovery. Fortunately, we live in a digital age with many ways to connect electronically.

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    COVID-19: Accessing Critical Medications for Your Loved One

    If your child or loved one is using medication to treat opioid addiction, you may need to consider how COVID-19 will impact their access.

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    Helping Your Child Manage Co-Occurring Disorders

    If your child has been diagnosed with co-occurring disorders, it can be helpful to stay vigilant.

    Learn more