IDHS Launches New Video Campaign to Promote Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances
Illinois shares stories of hope and recovery for individuals suffering from substance use disorder

[September 27, 2019]  The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) announced today the launch of a new statewide video campaign to bring awareness to the Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances. The Illinois Helpline connects individuals struggling with opioid use or other substance use, and anyone affected by the disease, directly with treatment and recovery options.

“Our goal with this video campaign is to continue to reduce stigma by sharing stories of individuals who are in recovery and how substance use disorder can affect us all,” said IDHS Secretary Grace B. Hou. “Through their eyes, we also hope you can see that those affected by substance use disorders can and do have full and rewarding lives.”

The videos feature individuals who share their stories of recovery and organizations from across the state who are providing treatment and recovery services for opioid and other substance use disorders. The video campaign will include TV spots, transit posters, social media ads, and billboard postings across major media markets in Illinois. The videos will also be posted on the IDHS YouTube page.

“We are excited to launch these new videos across the state and connect even more individuals to the Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances at 1-833-2FINDHELP and HelplineIL.org,” said Dani Kirby, IDHS Director of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery. “We hope these stories resonate with Illinois residents and they can see the Helpline as their first step to recovery.”

The IDHS Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery (SUPR) continues to implement strategies targeted at reducing the effects of substance use disorders in Illinois. Since the launch of the Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances and HelplineIL.org, IDHS has received over 16,700 calls and over 40,000 website visits.

If you or someone you know is suffering from an opioid use disorder or other substance use disorders, call the Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances at 1-833-2FINDHELP or visit HelplineIL.org.

You can view the videos here:

Help is Here: The Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances

Help is Here: Laura and Alex’s Story

Help is Here: Rex’s Story

Help is Here: Diana’s Story

Help is Here: Laurie’s Story

[ Illinois Office of Communication and Information]