A Way Out

Drug and alcohol overdose/toxicity are the leading cause of death in Illinois. To reduce the number of overdoses and the harm being caused by substance abuse, the McHenry County Substance Abuse Coalition and the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office, are working with local police agencies, Northwestern Medicine Woodstock Hospital and the McHenry County Mental Health Board to provide immediate help to those seeking to overcome their addictions. This program will connect users to substance abuse treatment providers within hours of making contact for help.

A Way Out - McHenry County offers substance abuse assessment 24/7 to anyone in McHenry County that wishes to seek recovery. Referral and placement for treatment are determined by assessment and based on availability.

Drug and alcohol overdose/toxicity are the leading cause of death in Illinois. To reduce the number of overdoses and the harm being caused by substance abuse, the McHenry County Substance Abuse Coalition and the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office, are working with local police agencies, Northwestern Medicine Woodstock Hospital and the McHenry County Mental Health Board to provide immediate help to those seeking to overcome their addictions. This program will connect users to substance abuse treatment providers within hours of making contact for help.

A Way Out - McHenry County offers substance abuse assessment 24/7 to anyone in McHenry County that wishes to seek recovery. Referral and placement for treatment are determined by assessment and based on availability.

How It Works

A Way Out - McHenry County offers substance abuse assessment 24/7 to anyone in McHenry County that wishes to seek recovery. Referral and placement for treatment are determined by assessment and based on availability.  All a participant needs to do is follow these six steps:

1. Walk through the main doors of any participating police department.

2. Tell the clerk at the front window that you want to participate in A Way Out - McHenry County. If you are seeking help after open lobby hours, use the call box and talk to dispatch.

3. A police department representative will meet with you to begin the  process, and fill out program forms. If you have any alcohol, drugs, or drug paraphernalia, the police representative  will  take them from you. You will not be arrested or charged for any drugs or paraphernalia that you turn over.

4. If the police determine you do not require immediate medical attention, you will be transported to Northwestern Medicine Woodstock Hospital for an assessment of your treatment needs. If, however, you are going through acute withdrawal or suffering a medical condition, you will be transported to the nearest hospital and the screening process will begin when you are stabilized.

5. Assessment of your treatment needs will include a history of your use and current medical, social and emotional issues which may impact your recovery. You may be  referred to inpatient, outpatient or community based treatment options. This program uses treatment services throughout Illinois, so placement in McHenry County is not guaranteed. Family and friends are the best transportation but other options may be available. Medical transport by ambulance, if needed, is the  patient’s responsibility.

6. You will never be turned away from participation in A Way Out - McHenry County because you lack insurance or finances. The program works with providers that can accept many  different insurance plans and help those without insurance. The McHenry County Mental Health Board may also provide assistance, while funds are available, and when additional paperwork is completed.

 WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO READ THE DETAILS OF THE PROGRAM:  

CLICK HERE for English brochure

CLICK HERE for Spanish brochure

A Way Out Navigator:

The navigator works with individuals in the program and continues to work with them even if they change their mind about treatment. Unfortunately, there are times when the right treatment is unavailable immediately due to capacity or other factors.  The navigator, at New Directions Addiction Recovery Services, will work with you for community support and placement to treatment when it is available.

CALL US NOW (815) 347-0385

EMAIL US AT [email protected]

Participating Police Departments