Substance Use Disorders

Northern Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy

Recovery is possible.
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The Northern Kentucky Helpline is a place to find help. It is a service provided by the Northern Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy.

Click here to access the Northern Kentucky Helpline to get immediate assistance. Or call the NKY Office of Drug Control Policy Helpline: (859) 415-9280.

Signs and Symptoms of Substance Use Disorders

Substance use disorders are increasing at an alarming rate with devastating consequences for individuals and their families. If you’re concerned about yourself or a loved one’s battle with substance use, please don’t hesitate to seek support.

Although signs can vary, Mayo Clinic provides a list of common signs that may indicate a substance use disorder.

  • Feeling that you have to use the drug regularly — daily or even several times a day
  • Having intense urges for the drug that block out any other thoughts
  • Over time, needing more of the drug to get the same effect
  • Taking larger amounts of the drug over a longer period of time than you intended
  • Making certain that you maintain a supply of the drug
  • Spending money on the drug, even though you can’t afford it
  • Not meeting obligations and work responsibilities, or cutting back on social or recreational activities because of drug use
  • Continuing to use the drug, even though you know it’s causing problems in your life or causing you physical or psychological harm
  • Doing things to get the drug that you normally wouldn’t do, such as stealing
  • Driving or doing other risky activities when you’re under the influence of the drug
  • Spending a good deal of time getting the drug, using the drug, or recovering from the effects of the drug
  • Failing in your attempts to stop using the drug
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you attempt to stop taking the drug

For additional signs or more information on mental health conditions, visit mayoclinic.org.

Substance Use Resources

For Help with Substance Use Disorders

Substance Use Disorder or drug addiction is a complex disease that evolves over time. It begins with early experimentation of alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs either recreationally or as a perceived quick fix for depression, sadness, loneliness, and other emotional or life challenges. Too often early use extends to regular use which can lead to dependence and addiction. Treatment options are available and recovery is possible.

Find Treatment

Call St. Elizabeth Physicians Journey Recovery Center, (859) 757-0717.

Find Treatment for Substance Use Disorders Today

Find Treatment

NKY Office of Drug Control Policy Helpline: (859) 415-9280

Experiencing a medical emergency?

If facing a medical emergency, please dial 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department for care.

Find An Emergency Department

Uncertain whether to go to the emergency department?

  • During regular office hours, call Journey Recovery Center (JRC) to speak to a trained staff member who can help you assess your situation.
  • Call the Nurse Now helpline for after hours care.
Call JRC: (859) 757-0717
Call Nurse Now:
(888) 4STE-NOW

Looking for Recovery Support?

For Information on Substance Use Disorders

For Those Who have Lost a loved one to substance use disorders.

P.E.A.C.E. Group (People Enduring Addiction Consequences Everyday)

What: A support group for people coping with the loss of a loved one, either through passing or lost from the family, as a result of substance use disorder.

When: The group meets the 3rd Thursday of each month from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Where: Mary & Jim Bunning Community Grief Center, located at 483 South Loop Dr., Edgewood, KY 41017.

Who: If you are interested in joining this support group, please contact our bereavement coordinator to arrange a consultation. For more information on other services, please contact us by phone at (859) 301-4611 or email us at stars@stelizabeth.com.