SUBSTANCE USE
You’re Not Alone – Let’s Talk About Substance Use
In a tough moment?
Call or text 988 anytime — free, confidential, 24/7.
Prefer texting? Try Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741
The 988 Lifeline is for everyone. Through the 988 Lifeline, you have access to free, quality, one-on-one assistance. Skilled, judgment-free counselors are here to provide compassionate support. You deserve to feel heard and cared about anytime, anywhere, 24/7/365.
Growing up in a rural community has its unique advantages — but at times it can also feel isolating or stressful. Sometimes, alcohol, drugs, or misusing prescription medications might seem like a way to cope, fit in, or escape. But substance use can hurt your mental health, relationships, and future.
It’s important to understand what’s going on, spot the warning signs, and know that support is available.
Understanding Substance Use
Substance use may often begin with simple curiosity, pressure to participate from friends, or stress in your life. But over time, using alcohol or drugs to cope can hurt your mental health, make school or work harder, and leave you feeling more alone.
In rural areas, it can feel like there aren’t many options for fun or ways to deal with stress, so turning to substances may seem like the easy solution. You’re not alone if you’ve felt this way.
Common signs to watch for:
You might notice these changes in yourself or a friend who is struggling with substance use:
Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy.
Struggling in school, at work, or in relationships.
Wanting to be alone more often.
Acting secretive or defensive.
Always feeling tired and run-down.
Needing more of a substance to feel the same effect.
Recognizing these signs is the first step to getting support.
What Can Substance Use Look Like in Rural Life?
Living in a small town or rural area can make it harder to talk about what you’re going through. It can seem like everyone knows everyone and everything – and that can make reaching out feel risky. But it’s likely that more people than you realize are dealing with the same challenges.
Whether it’s stress from school, family expectations, farm work, money issues, or just feeling stuck, it’s okay to admit that life feels overwhelming sometimes. Substances aren’t the only way to cope.
What Can Help? You’ve Got Options — Even in Rural Areas.
Support looks different for everyone, but here are some things that can make a difference:
Talk it out. Open up to a trusted friend, adult, teacher, or counselor — even if it feels scary.
Find other ways to cope. Exercise, music, art, journaling, or spending time outdoors can help manage stress.
Stay connected. Join a club, sports team, church group, or online community that feels safe and positive.
Reach out for professional support. If things feel really overwhelming, a doctor or therapist can help you find the right kind of support that you need. In some cases, you may be able to connect with online support through telehealth.
Real Resources That Can Help
If you or someone you know is struggling, here are some places you can turn for help:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 if you’re feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or unsafe.
SAMHSA’s Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) – Find free and confidential support for substance use and mental health.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) – Some communities offer youth-focused AA meetings.
Narcotics Anonymous (NA) – Some communities offer youth-focused NA meetings.
You Are Not Alone
Reaching out for help is a sign of strength – and it’s the first step toward building the future you want.
Return to Rural Youth Mental Wellness “Resources By Topic” webpage.