Going to rehab is the most effective way to overcome substance use disorder. Unfortunately, many people with this condition refuse treatment. According to SAMHSA, nearly 94% of Americans above 12 years didn’t receive medical treatment for substance use disorder. A vast majority think they don’t need treatment. Others refused treatment because of the stigma associated with addiction, fear, treatment cost, and privacy concerns.
If your loved one is struggling with addiction, you must make them understand the nature of their problem. Recognizing substance use disorder as a disease is the first step. However, the hard part is telling them rehabilitation is the best option. Convincing someone to go to rehab may take time and some effort. We have witnessed cases where patients declined treatment due to perceived judgment from the other party and poor communication. So what should and shouldn’t you say/do to the individual with addiction? This post will elaborate more on how to convince someone to go to rehab.
Cedar Oaks Wellness Center is a Cincinnati drug and alcohol rehab center that can help. Contact us today to learn more about Ohio residential inpatient rehab.
How Do You Convince Someone to Go to Rehab?
Looking for how to convince a loved one to go to rehab? You can use the following approaches;
Educate yourself
Before discussing the possibility of going to rehab, research and understand addiction and have accurate information about the signs, effects, and available treatment options. Besides making you empathetic, the facts will prepare you for healthy conversations with your loved one.
Some of the signs of substance abuse include:
- Wanting to stop using or drinking but can’t. This leads to increased tolerance
- Spending most of the time using or drinking. The person loses spending quality time with their friends and family because they have found a new companion in the drug or alcohol they take
- Continuing to drink or use, regardless of the effects on family, friends, and their physical/mental health
- Skipping school or work because of substance abuse
- Avoiding activities they once loved
- Indulging in risky behaviors, such as driving while intoxicated
- Cravings
Discuss with your loved one.
With what you have discovered about substance use in your research, the next is to have an honest conversation with your loved one. It entails expressing genuine concerns about their addiction and its effects on their well-being without judging or criticizing them. How you have this conversation is paramount to the success of the outcome.
Sometimes, words fail us when we least expect them, so plan what you want to say to your loved one. It means you should practice ahead of time. Focus on the information you’ve discovered and assure your loved one that addiction is a disease, not a lack of willpower. Don’t make them feel threatened or use stigmatizing language, such as addict. Instead, use substance use disorder.
Choose the right time and place.
Discuss in an open and calm private place where distractions are minimal. Avoid conversations that will lead to confrontations or fights. Also, don’t start conversations if your loved one is under the influence or intoxicated.
Show your support
Your loved one needs to feel supported throughout the process. This is crucial to ensure complete recovery. Assure them that you will always be supportive. Let them understand that rehab is the only way to regain freedom and achieve lasting happiness.
Share success stories
Sharing stories and testimonials of those who have successfully recovered from similar addictions can help with recovery. It can motivate your loved one to go to rehab and provide hope that they can successfully recover.
Stage a professional intervention.
If your loved one remains bent on not going, you may need to stage a medical intervention. Seek help from an addiction counselor or an intervention specialist who can help organize the process.
Set boundaries
Setting boundaries manages expectations and allows your loved one to feel safe and respected while you offer them support. Communicate with them about behaviors you’ll not condone. Make them understand that there will be consequences for crossing these boundaries. Talk to them calmly and consistently.
The above steps are how to convince someone to go to rehab.
Can You Force Someone to Go to Rehab?
Ultimately, the decision to go to rehab is personal. You can provide all the support and information but may still need to be convinced. You must remain patient and understanding throughout the process and continue offering support even if they initially decline.
If they are still hesitant, you can enroll them in a rehab program against their will if you are their parent. Also, they will be legally forced into treatment via court order if they pose any danger to society. This is called involuntary treatment law, and it’s allowed in 38 states in the United States. This law also states that people should be legally enrolled if they are incapacitated, mentally and physically disabled, or cannot care for their basic needs.
Cedar Oaks Wellness Center Can Help Your Loved One Recover from Addiction
It’s never too late to help someone with addiction. It may take multiple conversations to convince your loved one to seek help. That’s why you must manage your expectations. Next is to find a treatment facility to fit their specific needs.
The good news is you don’t have to look extensively because Cedar Oaks Wellness Center is the best place to get addiction treatment. We understand that there isn’t a single treatment for all addictions.
