Photo of Ilene Johnson, Prevention Specialist doing a presentation in Centerville about Your Life Iowa in January 2020

If you or a loved one are facing a problem with alcohol, drugs, gambling, mental health or suicidal thoughts, you’re not alone. That is why the Iowa Department of Public Health has created YourLifeIowa.org so Iowans can chat live, text, or call and get reliable information and treatment options, and find nearby help.

Our Prevention Specialists with Sieda Prevention and Substance Abuse Education reference and recommend to all Iowans their online services. Your Life Iowa is the integrated hub/system for free and confidential help and information for alcohol, drugs, gambling, and suicide.  24/7 resources include a telephone helpline; mobile-friendly internet-based communications (e.g., online chat); texting; and social media (@YourLifeIowa).

It is the end result of two distinct RFP process that combined three distinct and separate websites and helplines into one website and one vendor to manage this new integrated system. 

  • Problem Gambling: 1-800-BETS OFF helpline and 1800BETSOFF.org, including an online chat function
  • Alcohol/Drug use: DrugFreeInfo.org and helpline (866-242-4111)
  • Suicide and Bullying Prevention:  Helpline (855-581-8111), Text Line 855-898-8398 texting line, and yourlifeiowa.org with an online chat feature

Sieda Prevention and Substance Abuse Education Services provide information and education, such as Your Life Iowa, across 10 counties.

Appanoose           Davis          Jefferson          Keokuk           Lucas
Mahaska         Monroe         Van Buren         Wapello         Wayne

The main office is at 310 West Main, Ottumwa and they can be called for  prevention services at 641-683-6747.

Ilene Johnson
Prevention Specialist
Sieda Community Action
Behavioral Health & Treatment Services