How to Call the SAMHSA National Helpline

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, known as SAMHSA, runs a free national helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (1-800-662-4357). The line is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including holidays. It is free, confidential, and available in English and Spanish. You do not need health insurance to call, and the staff will never ask for your name or address unless you choose to share it.

The helpline is for people facing mental health concerns, substance use concerns, or both. That includes worries about your own use of alcohol, prescription pills, or other substances, as well as worries about a family member. The trained staff can listen, answer questions, and refer you to local treatment programs, support groups, and community organizations. They have access to a national database of more than 14,000 services.

Many older adults hesitate to call because they worry about being judged or about a loved one finding out. SAMHSA's calls are not recorded, the staff do not share information without your permission, and the call does not show up on Medicare or insurance records because no insurance is billed. The helpline is funded by the federal government as a public service.

Before you call, find a quiet place where you can talk for 15 to 30 minutes. Have a pen and paper ready to write down referrals. If you are calling about a loved one, gather basic information such as their ZIP code and what kind of help you think they need, but do not feel pressured to have all the answers. The staff will guide the conversation.

The helpline is not a crisis line for immediate danger. If you or someone else is thinking about suicide or self-harm, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. If there is a medical emergency, call 911. SAMHSA's helpline focuses on information, support, and treatment referrals.