Information about the types of live-in services available for intensive help with alcohol or drug problems.
Who it's suitable for: Residential services, support houses and drug treatment units are for people who are finding it hard to manage alcohol or drug use in their daily lives.
Please note: Services won’t be able to help you if you contact them while you are intoxicated.
In crisis? If you are really sick, or concerned about someone’s condition call 111, ask for an ambulance.
Residential services
Residential services provide a live-in situation. The location of facilities is discreet and your privacy is respected.
Who it’s suitable for: For people who have been trying to get off alcohol and or drugs for a long time but don’t feel there are other options left to try. You are also willing to live with others who are recovering from alcohol or drug addictions.
What to expect: Live-in services are available for a set period of time. There is provision of ongoing high-level support services. Read more about residential treatment centres and watch a video about how it supports your recovery on the Drug Help website.
Provided by: Non-governmental organisations, private clinics.
Cost: Most residential services are free. Private clinics charge a fee. If you're unsure, ask if there is a fee.
How to access:
- Ask for a referral from your GP or contact your local addiction service provider.
- Contact a residential service. For contact details, check the Healthpoint Services Directory.
- If you're unsure about the options, contact a counsellor for free, confidential advice: Alcohol Drug Helpline contact details
Support houses
A support house is like a half-way house that that offers extra support while you go through recovery.
Who it’s suitable for: For people waiting to start a residential live-in programme, or have finished a programme but are not quite ready to return to their usual living situation.
What to expect: Live with others in a drug and alcohol free home and receive support during your recovery.
Provided by: NGOs and private providers.
Cost: There may be some charge. There may be financial help with living expenses so check with Work and Income.
How to access: For information about support house options contact the Alcohol Drug Helpline:
- Alcohol Drug Helpline – phone 0800 787 797, text 8681, web chat
- Māori Helpline – kaupapa Māori support services: phone 0800 787 798, text 8681
- Pasifika Helpline – Pacific support services: phone 0800 787 799, text 8681
- Youth Helpline – support for issues affecting young people: phone 0800 787 984, text 8681
Live-in won't work for you?
There are other options if a residential service option, for whatever reason, is not suitable for you. Read about intensive out-patient programmes (day programmes).
Drug treatment units
Who it’s suitable for: If you are in prison and would like to be alcohol free or drug free.
What to expect: This is a group programme.
Provided by: Specialised units – Department of Corrections website
Cost: Free.
How to access: Talk to your case manager in prison and ask to be referred to the Drug Treatment Unit. You may have to fit certain criteria to access this service.
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