Key takeaway
Before you call rehab or a helpline, write down substances, last use times, medicines, overdose or seizure history, pregnancy status, and insurance plan name. A one-page fact sheet speeds real triage and exposes scripted sales calls. Call or text (800) 653-9376 when your list is ready.
Last updated: Wed Oct 07 2026 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
Blank panic on the phone wastes minutes. A one-page sheet makes every serious call shorter and safer.
Call 911 for emergencies. Call or text 988 for a crisis.
Clinical block
- Substances (or best guess)
- Last use time and approximate amount
- Prior overdoses, seizures, hospitalizations
- Medicines and allergies
- Pregnancy or chance of pregnancy
- Mental health crisis flags
Money and ID block
- Insurance card photo for yourself (not sent until you trust the recipient)
- Member Services number
- Cash constraints if uninsured
Life block
Transport, childcare, pets, work leave, legal constraints. See rehab admission process.
Next step
Write the page, then call or text (800) 653-9376, or use FindTreatment.gov. We are a referral helpline.
Call or text (800) 653-9376 when your checklist is ready for a real triage conversation.
Additional Resources
Sources cited on this page:
- SAMHSA National Helpline
- SAMHSA FindTreatment.gov
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- NIDA: Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment
Common Questions
What clinical facts matter most?
Substances used, last use time and amount, prior seizures or overdoses, other medicines especially sedatives, and pregnancy possibility.
What insurance details help?
Plan name, member ID, group number if present, and the Member Services phone on the card.
What logistics should I know?
Whether you can travel tonight, who can drive, childcare, pets, and work leave status.
Why does a written list help?
You answer consistently, and you notice when a caller never asks clinical questions.
Where does this fit with other call guides?
Pairs with what happens when you call and how the referral call works.