5 Phone Contacts You Need Before Rehab

Having helpful resources and information about recovery are essential tools for your safety and the safety of others. Having emergency numbers on your phone before you start looking or choosing the right rehab is a wise choice.

Below you will find the top five phone numbers you should have on your phone before beginning drug rehabilitation.

Emergency Number to Find Help Immediately: 911 or National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-Talk (8255)

Contacting 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-TALK (8255) is your best line of defense for an emergency.

Dialing 911 will help you in an emergency when immediate pain, suffering, or a crisis occurs. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a suicide prevention hotline to assist you in times of need to reduce risk factors for suicidal thoughts or behaviors. It can help support and protect you and others around you.

A few identifying factors of suicide can be complex to determine because they comprise multiple factors. For example, some risks include an individual talking or acting like they want to kill themselves, looking for a way to kill themselves, increasing the number of substances they use, acting recklessly, or displaying extreme mood swings. 

Suicide is a risk that could entail an immediately dangerous situation. If you or someone you love have signs or symptoms of suicide, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for immediate help or further guidance. After you contact 911 or the suicide prevention hotline, remove any objects away from the individual and stay with them while you wait for help to arrive.

SAMHSA's National Helpline: (800) 662-Help (4357). This will help you 365 days a year and is accessible 24 hours a day. There are multiple language options you can choose from, and the helpline is there to help you find local treatment facilities, community organizations, and support groups. 

In addition, the helpline provides access to publications and information. It is an excellent tool for families who struggle with mental health or substance use disorders.

American Association of Poison Control: (800) 222-1222

The American Association of Poison Control in California can be reached at (800) 222-1222. It exists to help you with immediate expert services and is available 24/7. 

In addition, the Poison Control Center offers specialized treatment advice for individuals exposed to poison and for residents in California. They are a significant emergency number to have on your phone as they can provide expert treatment advice. 

Veterans Crisis Line: (800) 273-8255

The Veterans Crisis Line is a personal connection for veterans who require assistance or have loved ones who need crisis support. They operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provide honest conversations and connections with qualified professionals. The line is a great way for you to have a qualified responder who can assist and confidentially refer you to the right resources and links.

The Forge Recovery Center: (800) 365-1772

The Forge Recovery Center number is ideal for having on your phone because they can immediately connect you with the right representative and refer you in the right direction. Furthermore, they are an addiction center specializing in recovery treatments. If you are looking to get help or find the right treatment plans, the Forge's number can give you access to any answer or information you need.

Preparing for a Call to One of the Above Numbers

As you enter the numbers into your phone, it is wise to have some information ready if possible. For example, having the following information can prepare you for what kind of questions will occur over the call.

• Your location

• What substances are involved

• Your age or the age of the individual who needs help

• How long the substances have been in use or the amount frequently used 

• The mental and physical condition of those who are suffering 

• Possible insurance information, if available 

When you call one of the above numbers to get help quickly, it is important to remember to be completely honest and transparent with them. By providing this information, the expert can give you valuable resources and direction as you need. 

Additionally, consider questions you may have regarding the phone call process or potential treatment options. Some of the questions you may consider asking include:

• What types of addiction treatment are available?

• Do the treatment options offer help with a specific drug?

• Is there a local treatment facility available?

• What other resources can help the situation?

Overall, the purpose of having the numbers in your phone before treatment will best prepare you for an emergency or a situation you may be unprepared for. The numbers listed above are for anyone who struggles with substance use or wants to help someone they love to find suitable recovery options. 

Friends and family of the individual struggling with substance use are encouraged to have the numbers on their phones as well. Many substance use helplines are available 365 days a year and can be called 24/7. 

Emergencies Happen. Preparation Is Key

If you want to prepare yourself or your loved one before drug treatment, having emergency contact numbers and professional experts available on your phone is a valuable resource. At The Forge, we understand that emergencies can happen any time and any day, and we want you to be best prepared for any unforeseen event.

If you are a part of an emergency, call 911 immediately. If you have questions about addiction recovery treatment, how to best handle potential overdose, or need information on treatment plans, we are here for you.

Our professionals are readily available to give you as much information and guidance without judgment. Additionally, we are here to offer compassion and want to help you find hope and healing in your life.

Don't hesitate to reach out to us today for more information on how you can have a knowledgeable staff on speed dial.

Written by

Brian Moore

Content Writer

Reviewed by

Jeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

May 6, 2022