Vital Information
Frequently Asked Questions
The Matthew Perry Foundation is committed to creating a future free of addiction stigmas, where everyone has the resources and opportunities to thrive in their recovery journey.
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a disease suffered by over 46 million Americans. It is a medical condition characterized by an inability to stop or control the use of substances such as drugs or alcohol, despite harmful consequences. It is a complex disease that affects the brain and behavior, and recovery often requires professional treatment and ongoing support.
A stigma is a set of negative and unfair beliefs that a society or group of people have about something.
Our inaugural program, Grassroots Recovery Grants, empowers organizations tirelessly combating substance use disorders in their communities. Our grants provide financial assistance to diverse groups offering hope and recovery to those affected, groups that often lack the resources or recognition to secure traditional funding. These grants bridge existing gaps in peoples’ recovery journeys, filling them with support from organizations on the ground. We are developing other exciting partnerships and programs and will keep our community updated on the Foundation’s website and social channels as they progress.
We are not currently accepting unsolicited grant proposals. Please stay connected to our website and social channels as we will share that information when that changes. Our initial focus with the Grassroots Recovery Grants is to rely on community experts to guide us in selecting organizations in their districts. We value the endorsements and recommendations from community leaders, as they play a vital role in our process. By working closely with these local experts, we aim to combat the addiction epidemic holistically and honor Matthew’s wish to help as many people as possible.
You can reach us through our Contact page or by emailing [email protected].
You can stay updated by subscribing and following us on social media, and regularly visiting our website. We share news, updates, and stories of impact to keep our community informed and engaged.
Partnership to End Addiction
Offers free, confidential support specifically for parents and caregivers concerned about a young person’s substance use. Services include helpline specialists, parent support groups, and peer coaching from trained parents with lived experience.
Website:https://drugfree.org/get-support/
Helpline:855-378-4373 | Text: CONNECT to 55753
Young People in Recovery (YPR)
A national peer-led organization for young adults in recovery or seeking recovery from substance use disorders. YPR offers free all-recovery meetings, peer connection, recovery-focused activities, and a national virtual chapter.
Website:https://youngpeopleinrecovery.org/
National chapter:https://chapters.youngpeopleinrecovery.org/chapter-ypr-national/
SAMHSA FindTreatment.gov / National Helpline
A confidential, anonymous national resource for locating substance use and mental health treatment throughout the United States. The SAMHSA National Helpline also provides 24/7 treatment information and referral assistance.
Treatment locator:https://findtreatment.gov/
National Helpline:1-800-662-HELP (4357)
American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM)
ASAM provides reliable, evidence-based information for individuals and families about addiction and treatment options, as well as a directory for locating physicians with addiction medicine expertise.
Addiction Explained:https://www.asam.org/education/addiction-explained
Find an addiction medicine physician:https://www.asam.org/physicians
Learn to Cope (LTC) is primarily regional, though its reach extends online. It originated in Massachusetts and primarily serves the Northeast with in-person chapters, but it hosts a 24/7 online family forum, and virtual support meetings open to loved ones nationwide.
For nationwide, fully established family support networks, the following options exist:
- Al-Anon Family Groups & Nar-Anon: The largest global 12-step peer networks for families and friends. Al-Anon focuses primarily on alcohol impact, while Nar-Anon focuses on drug/narcotic impact. Both offer in-person and daily virtual meetings nationwide.
- Alateen / Narateen: Dedicated youth arms within Al-Anon and Nar-Anon designed specifically for teenagers affected by a family member or friend’s substance use.
- SMART Recovery Family & Friends: A non-12-step, evidence-based program utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) tools to help loved ones set boundaries, cope, and support positive change. Offers weekly online meetings across the country.
- Partnership to End Addiction: Provides a national parent/family helpline, 1-on-1 peer coaching from trained parents who have navigated a child’s substance use, and texting support tools.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder and needs immediate help, please use the following resources:
National Helpline for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services:
988 or 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Crisis Text Line:
Text HOME to 741741
Emergency Services:
Call 911 if you are in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency.
We are here to support you in your journey to recovery. Please reach out to these resources if you need help right away.
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