Approximately 40.3 million individuals aged 12 and older struggled with a substance use disorder in the United States in 2020, however, only 4 million of them received the treatment they required.
Persuading an alcoholic to get help or convincing someone to go to drug rehab may be met with resistance. Addicts may oppose help offered for several reasons, including denial of their problem, fear of stigma or judgment, and feelings of shame or guilt. Some may not recognize the full extent of their addiction or the harm it causes, while others may rely on their addiction as a coping mechanism for underlying issues like trauma or stress.
Watching a loved one struggle with drug or alcohol addiction is excruciating. It hurts even more if they are reluctant to seek help and support. Wellbrook Recovery, a state-of-the-art treatment center in Wisconsin, has mapped out a guide discussing how to convince someone to go to rehab and seek out the help they need and deserve.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Recognizing the Signs of Addiction
Convincing someone to go to rehab starts with understanding addiction and identifying its effects. There are numerous symptoms and common behaviors of substance use disorder, which can vary depending on the substance being used. Some typical symptoms include:
- Intense urges for a specific drug
- Needing more of the drug over time
- Avoiding social events or activities
- Failing to meet obligations and responsibilities
- Performing risky behaviors when intoxicated
Identifying Behavior Changes
Addiction is a disease that affects a person’s brain and behavior. Substances can cause persistent changes in one’s personality, including:
- Increased Secrecy: People with substance use issues often become secretive and take extra measures to protect their privacy. They may share less and avoid answering questions when asked.
- Aggression and Anger: As addiction progresses, individuals may find it more difficult to defend their addiction, which can lead to verbal and physical aggression. Individuals may become violent and angry towards those trying to help them.
- Deception: Individuals with addiction will go to various lengths to obtain their substance. This often involves deceiving and manipulating the people around them. They are caught lying often and will constantly justify their behaviors.
- Risk-Taking: People with addiction may be prone to taking risks such as stealing or driving under the influence. Many substances lower inhibitions, increasing the chances of a person taking risks.
- Forgetfulness: Substance use can result in memory issues and disrupt memory processing.
Physical Manifestations of Addiction
In addition to behavioral symptoms, there are many physical signs that indicate someone may be struggling with addiction. Below are some physical early warning signs of drug addiction.
- Changes in Pupil Size: Many substances cause dilated pupils regardless of lighting.
- Runny Nose: Some abused substances are taken through the nose, leading to irritation and nasal congestion.
- Weight Loss: Appetite and metabolism changes are common side effects of substance abuse. Withdrawal symptoms can also cause nausea, vomiting and weight loss.
- Bloodshot Eyes: Some substances cause bloodshot eyes and the constant need for eye drops.
Step 2: Educate Yourself on Rehab Options
The second step to encourage someone to go to rehab is learning about rehab options. There are many treatment options available for people struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol. These include inpatient and outpatient rehab, ongoing support groups and multiple kinds of therapies.
Types of Addiction Rehab Facilities
Addiction rehab centers can be classified into different types based on their approach to treatment and their setting:
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1. Inpatient Rehab Center: Inpatient rehab centers, also known as residential rehabilitation, offer intensive treatment programs for people with severe addictions. Patients reside in a controlled environment where they receive care and support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This environment allows for a focused recovery process, away from external triggers and influences. At Wellbrook Recovery, a premier inpatient addiction treatment center in Wisconsin, we offer a welcoming and neutral environment that provides individuals a safe space, free of connections with their past addictions.
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2. Outpatient Rehab Center: Outpatient rehab centers offer flexible treatment options that allow patients to live at home and not disengage from their various daily activities while attending therapy sessions and programs. This type of rehabilitation is suitable for people with mild addictions or after hospitalization, providing support in the transition to daily life. Wellbrook Recovery offers an intensive outpatient program where we offer therapy for individuals, without separating them from their loved ones. -
3. Dual Diagnosis Center: Dual diagnosis centers specialize in treating people who have co-occurring substance abuse and mental health disorders. These centers have a team of professionals who treat both disorders simultaneously, ensuring comprehensive care and a greater likelihood of lasting recovery. Help your loved one get the care they need with specialized dual diagnosis treatment at Wellbrook Recovery.
Step 3: Approach the Conversation with Care
Having an honest and open conversation with your loved one requires thought and preparation. Creating a safe space for dialogue and selecting the right time and place can determine the success of the conversation.
Fostering an Open and Supportive Environment for Conversation
Creating a safe environment is crucial when deciding how to get someone to go to rehab. By doing so, your loved one is more likely to be receptive and non-defensive. Here are some tips for creating a safe space:
- Permission: Ask for permission before speaking out to ensure your loved one doesn’t feel violated. You can say “May I ask you something?” or “ May I share my feelings?”
- No Judgement: Take an open and calm approach, avoiding judgement, anger or fear. Your tone of voice and body language are everything; be sure to speak softly, stay curious and listen with an open mind.
Choosing the Right Time and Place
When selecting the setting and time for this important conversation, you may want to bear in mind the following:
- Privacy: Have your discussion in a private and calm place where distractions are minimal.
- Comfort: Choose a place you and your loved one know well and are comfortable with.
- Sober: Do not start a conversation if your loved one is under the influence or intoxicated.
- Time: Give yourself plenty of time to chat. Do not start the conversation when you or your loved one is rushed or pressed for time.
Step 4: Offer Support and Resources
Your next step would be to encourage your loved one to seek professional help and offer support in finding treatment options. You can begin convincing someone to go to rehab by sharing information about available programs and additional resources for support.
Available Programs and Additional Addiction Resources
At Wellbrook Recovery our mission is to help individuals struggling with substance abuse overcome their addiction and lead healthy and successful lives. We offer many treatment options and a variety of therapies and use evidence-based interventions to foster a deep and lasting recovery.
SAMSHA is the agency within the US. Department of Health that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. SAMSHA is the number one resource when looking to receive care and achieve well-being for addicts.
Step 5: Set Boundaries and Consequences
Setting boundaries is crucial to protect yourself and others close to you and the addicted individual. They ensure that you are not taken advantage of or abused by your loved one. Examples of boundaries may include:
- No drugs or alcohol allowed in the house
- Refuse to give you money
- I will no longer cover for you when you are in trouble
Explaining the Importance of Healthy Boundaries
When explaining why it is crucial to have boundaries in place, be sure to:
- Be specific: You need to set precise boundaries in order to get your message across. Ensure the boundary you set is specific and correlates to the behavior you’d like addressed.
- Clarify: Avoid vague language or concepts that keep your loved one guessing as to what you are trying to convey. Provide specific examples to ensure clarity.
Discuss Potential Consequences
Explain to your loved one that breaking any boundary you have set will result in a consequence. When addicts know specific consequences they may face, they may reconsider their actions.
Boundaries with no consequences are no boundaries at all. Remember that setting up boundaries is for your safety and well-being. If you do not enforce the boundary, you are hurting yourself as well as the addicted person.
Step 6: Follow Up and Stay Engaged
Once you have expressed your concerns, shared treatment options as well as resources and have set boundaries and consequences in place, be prepared to:
- Face Resistance: Even when confronted with the consequences of their actions, your loved one may resist the notion that they have a problem or that they require any help. The resistance can stem from denial, fear, or a lack of understanding about the benefits of treatment.
- Check in on their Feelings and Progress: Clear communication channels are crucial for recovery. Create an environment where open dialogue is encouraged by actively checking in on your loved ones’ feelings and progress without judgement or criticism.
- Reinforce Support and Encouragement: Prepare for a range of emotions and reactions, from anger to sadness. Stay calm and supportive, emphasizing your care and concern for their well-being. Reassure them that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that you will be there to support them through the process.
Supporting a Loved One Through Every Step of the Addiction Recovery Journey
Putting in the time to learn how to convince someone to go to rehab should be first on your list if you have a loved one struggling with addiction. Helping an addict get help can be challenging, but by using the techniques we’ve outlined, the success rate improves significantly.
At Wellbrook Recovery, we understand the challenges of addiction and the importance of finding help for a loved one. Our compassionate team is here to guide and support both you and your loved one through every step of the journey to sobriety. Reach out today and learn how to encourage someone to go to rehab and take the first step on their path to recovery.
FAQs About How to Help an Addict Get Help
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 still not succeed. Staying patient and understanding will hopefully slowly encourage your loved ones to take the next step.
What Should You Not Say When Discussing Rehab?
Some things to avoid include:
- Labeling - do not refer to the individual as an “addict,” “alcoholic,” or “user”
- Scare tactics - do not give threats or share any horror stories
- Blame - do not point fingers or place blame
- Comparing - do not draw comparisons or use phrases like, “Everyone’s got problems”
How Long Does Rehab Typically Last?
Addiction treatments typically last around 30 days, however, some programs last 60 to 90 days. Milder addictions will need shorter treatment lengths, whereas more severe addictions will need longer.
