There are SO many free resources available to people in recovery from addiction or a mental health issue. Here is a collection of our favorite resources that can help you out, whether you are just getting started, coming back, or well on your way to healing.
Save These Numbers
A mental health crisis hotline that you can text: https://www.crisistextline.org/
Find substance abuse help through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline. Connect with treatment and mental health referrals near you by:
- Calling 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- Texting your zip code to HELP4U (435748)
SAMHSA offers free, confidential help for people facing substance abuse issues.
Bookmark These Websites
Our website, with a blog and podcast focused on positive recovery, is called hopebeyonddope.com
Subscribe by email here to receive motivational emails and creative ideas:
Descriptions of mental health conditions and their symptoms: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/
Search certified sober housing in Massachusetts here: https://mashsoberhousing.org/certified-residences/
Search treatment facilities in the United States here: Home – FindTreatment.gov
In the United Kingdom, try the resources at this link: Mental health websites
Read These FREE Books and PDFs
The AA Big Book is the official main literature of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Refuge Recovery inventory questions (another Buddhist program of recovery)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a mental health therapy for changing attitudes, perception, and assumptions, in order to change the actions that you take.
Here is an introduction to CBT.
Here is a free self-help workbook for CBT.
Here is a list of common cognitive distortions (errors in thinking that lead us to the wrong conclusion.)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a mental health therapy for impulsivity, low self-esteem, mindfulness, and managing emotions.
Here are the handouts that explain DBT concepts.
And here are the worksheets that go with them.
Download These Apps
Everything AA for Ios (Apple) – this essential app has a directory of online AA meetings, Alcoholics Anonymous literature to read or listen to, and so much more.
I Am Sober for IOS (Apple) or Android – this app has a sobriety day counter, helpful journaling questions to work through, and a community of people celebrating the same sobriety milestones as you. You can do everything from posting how you feel to tracking how you experience cravings.
Most online recovery meetings meet on the Zoom app. You’ll need it installed to attend. Download Zoom on your IOS (Apple) or Android phone, and set it up, so that you’re all set to attend a variety of online recovery meetings. You can also download Zoom on your laptop.
Go to These Free Online Meetings
You can go to these online meetings any time you’re struggling, can’t be alone, or have a craving. A lot of people in recovery try to get to a meeting every single day. But find what works for you- everyone’s path is different.
Alcoholics Anonymous Online Meetings These meetings for everyone- not just people who are addicted to alcohol, but also people who are addicted to drugs, gambling, shopping, codependency, and more. AA meetings are oriented on sharing strength and hope. There are many different types of meetings- including meetings where you listen to someone share your story, meetings where everyone joins in and shares on a topic, meetings specifically for men or women, meetings for LGBTQ or young people, and even meetings with a theme of music or art.
Refuge Recovery Online Meetings This is a recovery meeting focused on Buddhist principles, but you do not have to be Buddhist to enjoy them. They often include a group meditation, followed by sharing.
Recovery Dharma Online Meetings This is another recovery meeting focused on Buddhist principles, but you do not have to be Buddhist to enjoy them. They often include a group meditation, followed by sharing.
SmartRecovery Online Meetings This is a recovery meeting based on the effective therapy, CBT. They’re led by facilitators, not therapists, but many find these strategies very helpful. And they’re a non-religious approach to recovery.
Narcotics Anonymous Online Meetings Similar to AA, but not the same. It is focused on drug addiction specifically. You can choose between AA or NA for yourself- there are some differences.
Meetings are available on some platform at any time day or night. You never have to be alone again. These are supportive environments where you can learn about recovery and share your story with people who are fighting the same battles you are. <3
Subscribe to our blog by email to receive more resources for your recovery and mental health journey.
And if you think of any other resources that should be added to this list, please contact us, and we’ll add it here!
Thanks for reading! Hope this helps and wishing you well.
-Jordan and Jenny
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