Substance Abuse Information
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse can simply be defined as a pattern of harmful use of any substance for mood-altering purposes. "Substances" can include alcohol and other drugs (illegal or not) as well as some substances that are not drugs at all. "Abuse" can result because you are using a substance in a way that is not intended or recommended, or because you are using more than prescribed.
Substance abuse and problematic patterns of substance use among youth can lead to problems at school, cause physical and mental health-related issues, promote poor peer relationships, cause motor-vehicle accidents, and place stress on the family. They can also develop into lifelong issues such as substance dependence, chronic health problems, and social and financial consequences.
Warning Signs
Many youth may show behaviors in adolescence that are indicative of substance abuse, but can also be considered normal behaviors while growing up. It is important to take notice if there are several signs happening at the same time, if they occur suddenly, and if the behaviors are extreme. The following behaviors in a youth might indicate drug or alcohol abuse:
Mood changes (temper flare-ups, irritability, defensiveness)
Academic problems (poor attendance, low grades, disciplinary action)
Changing friends and a reluctance to have parents/family get to know the new friends
A "nothing matters" attitude (lack of involvement in former interests, general low energy)
Finding substances (drug or alcohol) in youth’s room or personal effects
Physical or mental changes (memory lapses, poor concentration, lack of coordination, slurred speech, etc.)1
Information for Students
Information for Parents
Resources & Hotlines
Sonoma County Behavioral Health (707) 565-7450
Substance Use Disorder and Community Recovery Services
Crisis Text Line text HOME to 741741
Sonoma County Behavioral Health (707) 565-7450
Substance Use Disorder and Community Recovery Services
Crisis Text Line text HOME to 741741
Crisis Text Line offers advice and referrals for anyone who feels that they’re experiencing a crisis. This can include drug and alcohol dependency, suicidal impulses, family problems, and other personal difficulties. To access the Crisis Text Line, text HOME to 741741 any time, day or night.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness operates a helpline for individuals and their loved ones who feel they may be experiencing a mental health crisis. People who know or suspect they have a mental disorder or who believe a loved one might be suffering from such an issue can call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) to get help. The helpline also accepts text contacts, and the alliance may be reached via email. Responses go out during normal business hours.
The National Drug Helpline is open to any individual dealing with addiction issues, including family members and other loved ones. Resources are available for those struggling with any addictive substance, including alcohol, and professionals are available to help at 1-844-289-0879.
National Institute of Mental Health Information Resource Center
The National Institute of Mental Health Information Resource Center hotline helps people suffering from mental illness find the resources they need to get treatment, including crisis intervention. Services are available in English and Spanish at 1-866-615-6464 or 1-866-415-8051 for TTY users. Live help is limited to regular hours, though online chat is also available.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline exists to help people feeling suicidal find the help they’re looking for. The lifeline also has resources to assist people with addiction issues to find help. Callers can reach the lifeline at any time of the day or night at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or 1-800-799-4889 for TTY users. Spanish-language services are available by calling 1-888-628-9454. Online chat is also available.
Parents and other caregivers can reach out to the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids at 1-855-378-4373, to be connected with information and assistance dealing with children’s addiction issues. Live services are available during regular hours only, but concerned guardians can reach the hotline by email and by text.
