You can find many kinds of help for a substance abuse problem. Help can come from formal institutions or organizations or it can come from an informal support network.

The goal of help may depend on the kind of substance problem. An addicted person's goal should be abstinence, or non-use of the substance. A person who is not yet addicted but has problems stemming from use may only need to change the way that they consume, that is, stop abusing the substance. To start with, however, any substance-abusing person should stop drinking or using drugs entirely.

Helping agencies and organizations are listed in the phone book or can be reached through calling a local health/mental health center. Private organizations that specialize in substance abuse treatment (you may find these in the yellow pages) or a local hospital can also provide effective help. Kinds of help and helping agencies vary from area to area.

Many people who seek help for a substance abuse problem meet with success and go on to live happy and productive lives. With the right program and support any person can be successful in working through this.