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You can help a loved one look for substance use treatment without trying to diagnose them or choose care on their behalf. Start with a calm, caring conversation, offer to search for options together, and contact a qualified provider to discuss what may fit. In the United States and its territories, SAMHSA’s FindTreatment.gov and National Helpline can help locate services; call or text 988 for a crisis, and call 911 for immediate danger or a medical emergency.
Start with a caring conversation
Choose a time and place where you can talk privately, without rushing or arguing. Describe what you have noticed and how it affects you, rather than using blame or labels. You might say, “I’m worried about you, and I’m here if you want help finding support.” SAMHSA’s family guide encourages people to express concern and offer help.
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Listen to what your loved one wants and what makes seeking care difficult. They may not be ready to take the same step you would choose. Offer practical help—such as looking up services, making a call together, or arranging a ride—while leaving decisions about care to them whenever possible.
Find treatment options together
Search SAMHSA’s treatment locator
FindTreatment.gov is SAMHSA’s confidential and anonymous locator for mental health and substance use treatment services in the United States and its territories. Search by location, including state, county, and distance. The locator also provides filters such as age groups, special programs, and recovery supports; check the live site for current filters and provider details.
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Use the results to build a short list, not to assume a program is available or appropriate. Contact providers directly to confirm eligibility, services, current openings, and how to begin an assessment.
Call SAMHSA’s National Helpline
If online searching feels overwhelming, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 (1-800-662-HELP). SAMHSA describes it as a free, confidential, 24/7 referral and information service in English and Spanish. The official page also lists TTY service at 1-800-487-4889 and the option to text a ZIP code to 435748 (HELP4U). Check the page for current contact details and availability.
Compare programs using practical questions
A locator listing is a starting point. When you or your loved one contact a program, ask questions that clarify what care it offers and whether it can meet the person’s needs. SAMHSA’s older quality guide recommends asking about evidence-based approaches and access to medical care. It also suggests finding another provider if the program cannot see the person or family member within 48 hours. That is a screening prompt from the guide, not a guarantee of capacity or a universal clinical rule.
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- Care and medical support: What treatment approaches does the program use? Does it provide medical care or help arrange it?
- Assessment and timing: What is the next step to be evaluated, and when is the earliest appointment or intake?
- Fit and eligibility: Does the program serve the person’s age group and circumstances? Are relevant special programs or recovery supports available?
- Practical access: Where is the service, how often would visits occur, and are transportation or other access needs addressed?
- Cost: Does the provider accept the person’s insurance, and what payment options or costs should they expect?
- Family involvement: Does the program offer family services, and how can relatives participate if the loved one agrees?
Availability, eligibility, payment, and appointment timing vary by provider. A qualified professional must assess the person and recommend an appropriate level of care; a family member or online listing cannot determine a diagnosis or treatment plan.
Know when to seek crisis or emergency help
For a substance use-related crisis or other urgent emotional distress, call or text 988 for 24/7 crisis support. A concerned family member can contact 988 too.
If there is immediate danger or a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Do not wait for a treatment appointment or a callback from a referral service in an emergency.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support your loved one—and yourself
Finding care can take more than one conversation or call. Keep offering specific, manageable help without making yourself solely responsible for another person’s choices or recovery. Ask providers about family services, and use SAMHSA’s family support resources to explore support and self-care for yourself. You can be present and encouraging while also seeking support of your own.
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