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

Help Us Change the Story of Addiction

We’re using the power of storytelling to break barriers and reduce the heartache and frustration. Take action and help us fix the system.

We’re using the power of storytelling to break barriers and reduce the heartache and frustration. Take action and help us fix the system.

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Rory was punished for his illness

Many people with substance use disorder end up involved with the criminal justice system, where they are typically subject to an approach that is punitive, rather than health-promoting.

When we finally realized we needed help for our son, we didn’t expect it to be so difficult to find

Because addiction treatment is separate from the rest of the health care system, finding quality treatment can be challenging.

When my family members needed help, I was told my only option was to go to the police

While police are often the default first responders for mental heath and substance use disorder crises, they lack adequate training and preparation.

Because I am Black, I am more likely to be arrested or go to prison for drug use than receive treatment

Racist drug policies, coupled with systemic racism in the health care and criminal justice systems, have sowed distrust and had devastating consequences on Black and Brown communities.

When William needed help, he was repeatedly turned away by hospitals

After reviving a patient who has overdosed, hospital emergency departments often miss an opportunity to engage the patient with substance use disorder treatment.

I was one of the lucky ones to receive medication to treat my opioid addiction

Legal and regulatory restrictions, stigma, and other barriers make it difficult for many patients to access FDA-approved medications to treat opioid use disorder (MOUD).

Our son overdosed in his doctor’s office and they had no idea what to do

Health care providers receive minimal training to address addiction and are unequipped to identify, treat and manage this common life-threatening disease.

My family wasn’t included in Nic’s treatment

Families aren’t often included in treatment even though research shows that when families are involved, informed and supported, the outcomes for those with addiction are better.