Need Help? You're Not Alone
If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol, these trusted resources can help. We're not here to judge — only to point you in the right direction.
Taking the first step is often the hardest part. Whether you need immediate crisis support, want to explore recovery options, or just need someone to talk to — help is available. All resources listed below are free or low-cost, and many offer 24/7 support.
Signs You May Need Help
If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to reach out:
- Drinking more than you planned, more often than you intended
- Feeling anxious, restless, or irritable when you can't drink
- Hiding how much you drink from family, friends, or coworkers
- Missing work, school, or important events because of drinking or hangovers
- Needing more alcohol to feel the same effects you used to
- Continuing to drink despite problems it's causing in your relationships or health
There's no shame in asking for help. These feelings are more common than you think, and millions of people have found their way to recovery.
Crisis & Immediate Help
If you're in crisis or need to talk to someone right now, these services are available 24/7, completely free and confidential.
SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service. They can help you find local treatment facilities, support groups, and community organizations. Available in English and Spanish.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
24/7 support for people in distress. Not just for suicide — they help with any emotional crisis, including substance abuse struggles. Call or text 988.
Crisis Text Line
Prefer texting over talking? Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Response times are usually under 5 minutes.
Recovery Programs
Different approaches work for different people. AA uses a spiritual 12-step approach, while SMART Recovery is science-based. Moderation Management is for those who want to cut back rather than quit entirely. Try what feels right for you.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
The original 12-step program with meetings worldwide. Known for its supportive community and sponsor system. Free to join — find local or online meetings on their website.
SMART Recovery
Science-based addiction recovery using cognitive behavioral techniques. Great for people who prefer a non-religious approach. Online and in-person meetings available.
Moderation Management
For those who want to reduce drinking rather than abstain completely. Uses behavioral change techniques to help you regain control. Good first step if you're not ready for full sobriety.
LifeRing Secular Recovery
Abstinence-based recovery without religious or spiritual elements. Focus on personal responsibility and building your own recovery program. Supportive, non-judgmental community.
Online Support Communities
Sometimes it's easier to connect with others who understand what you're going through. These online communities offer peer support, shared experiences, and encouragement — all from the comfort of your home.
r/stopdrinking
Active Reddit community with 900k+ members supporting each other through sobriety. Great for daily check-ins, sharing wins (big and small), and getting advice from people who've been there.
In The Rooms
Free online recovery meetings — over 130 weekly meetings across various programs including AA, NA, and others. Perfect if you can't make it to in-person meetings.
Sober Grid
Social network designed specifically for people in recovery. Connect with others nearby or worldwide, track your sobriety, and get support when you need it most.
Educational Resources
Understanding alcohol's effects on your body and mind can be empowering. These government resources provide research-backed information without pushing any particular treatment.
NIAAA (National Institute on Alcohol)
Research-based information on alcohol's effects, treatment options, and recovery resources. Part of the National Institutes of Health — the gold standard for alcohol research.
Rethinking Drinking
Free self-assessment tools to evaluate your drinking patterns. Helps you understand whether your drinking is low-risk, moderate, or heavy — and what that means for your health.
CDC Alcohol Program
Prevention resources, fact sheets, and public health information about alcohol use. Good for understanding the broader health impacts of drinking.
Common Concerns
No. All the hotlines and resources listed here are confidential. SAMHSA and 988 don't share your information with employers, law enforcement, or anyone else. Your privacy is protected.
That's okay. Recovery looks different for everyone. Programs like Moderation Management focus on reducing drinking rather than complete abstinence. The most important thing is taking that first step — whatever that looks like for you.
Yes. SAMHSA's helpline can connect you with free or low-cost treatment options in your area. AA, SMART Recovery, and most support groups are completely free. Many states also have programs that cover treatment costs.
Important Notice
We are not a healthcare provider, treatment center, or crisis intervention service. This page provides links to external resources for informational purposes only. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911 or your local emergency services. The resources listed are not affiliated with ETG-Calculator.org, and we cannot guarantee their services or availability.
Ready to Check Your Levels?
Use our free ETG calculator to estimate your detection window.