If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide or in crisis? Call or text 988.Being hurt or threatened at home? National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233.Help with alcohol or drug use: SAMHSA Helpline, 1-800-662-4357.
Overview
You can't control their use.
Taking care of yourself matters.
When to get medical care
Call 911Someone overdosing: call 911 and give naloxone.
Get care todayFeeling unsafe.
See a doctor soonFeeling overwhelmed.
Causes
Related to a loved one's substance use.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause worried about someone else's drug or alcohol use. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Worried about a loved one's drug or alcohol useSee a doctor if it doesn't get better
Worrying about a family member or friend who's drinking or using drugs is hard.
What you can do at home
- Join Al-Anon or Nar-Anon.
- Keep naloxone.
Medicines
Counseling.
At the doctor
A provider can listen.
Questions you may be asked
- Stress
The exam
A physical exam.
Tests
- None
Prevention
Support helps.
- Find a group
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.