When someone you love is suffering from addiction, it can be a heartbreaking and difficult experience for everybody involved. You may want to help your friend or family member get the treatment they need but feel helpless when it comes to finding successful solutions. Getting an addict into rehab can seem like an uphill battle, filled with frustration, ambivalence, and even denial. But don’t lose hope – there are actions you can take to increase the chances of getting them the help they need. Continue reading to learn more about providing loving support while encouraging drug addicts to enter treatment at their own pace.
Reasons addicts are hesitant about rehab
There are numerous reasons why someone might be hesitant about heading to rehab. It’s pretty low on the fun meter, takes a lot of work and dedication, and can be uncomfortable.
More specifically, there are a few common reasons why an addict might struggle to take this first step toward their recovery.
The lack of a support system can hinder an addict from starting rehab. If they don’t feel bolstered by their family, friends, or even therapist or doctor, why would they want to take one of the most courageous steps they will have to take in their lifetime? Feeling alone is a huge barrier to seeking out treatment.
There is no guarantee of success if someone gets admitted to rehab. Motivation, willingness, triggers, and more all play a role in whether or not a patient will relapse later on. There are tremendous risks involved in going to rehab, and this uncertainty can cause an addict to hesitate to make the plunge. For some people, there are too many “what ifs.”
The cost of rehab can also lead addicts to turn the other way and not bother. Despite financial assistance programs, insurance, sliding scales, etc., some individuals don’t know they exist, and others still cannot afford treatment.
Ways to encourage an addict to go to rehab
Right now, you might be in a situation where you desire more for your addicted loved one’s life; however, they aren’t making any effort to change their bad habits and commit to sobriety and recovery. Despite having a hesitant or stubborn addict in your life, there are some things you can do as a family member, friend, or mentor to help encourage them to strive toward recovery and finally enter rehab.
The key word here is encourage.
This is crucial: steer clear of judgemental attitudes, don’t be aggressive or nagging, and don’t give ultimatums. Compassion, understanding, and patience are key.
Show support in various ways. Offer to help your loved one get started by sitting down with them, contacting a preferred drug rehab facility, making a pros and cons list, discussing costs, etc. The likelihood your loved one will begin treatment is higher if someone is there to support them.
Look at data, statistics, and anecdotal reports, and speak to people who have been there. If your loved one is left-brained, they may need “proof” that the treatment works. It doesn’t have to be manipulative, just play to their interests, emotions, and logic.
Overall, help your loved one see a different perspective of the issue and understand that you will be there to support them throughout their entire recovery journey.
Conclusion
If you are in this situation, it’s important to remember that there are right and wrong ways to get your loved one into rehab. You can’t just show up at their door with a suitcase and an ultimatum, as this will only push them away and make them resent you. Instead, try having an open conversation with them about your concerns and why you think rehab would benefit them. If they’re resistant, don’t give up. Keep reminding them of how much you love them and that you only want what’s best for them. Ultimately, it’s their decision whether or not to go to rehab, but if they do decide to take that step, the team at Innovative Health Systems is here to help. We offer comprehensive addiction treatment services that are tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your loved one recover.
