We used to think that rehab wouldn’t do anyone any good unless they really and truly wanted to get better.
We now know that’s not necessarily true.
If you can persuade your loved one to go to rehab—by whatever means—chances are that something will sink in. In other words, your friend or family member can benefit from rehab, even if they didn’t really want to go.
The Importance of Helping Someone Get Into Rehab
Less than two decades ago, many people thought of addiction in a very different way. The theory went something like this: People had to hit rock bottom to recognize they needed help.
The problem with the rock bottom theory is that is puts lives at risk, especially in light of the opioid crisis. While you wait for your loved one to hit rock bottom, they put their lives in danger every time they use.
What to Say When a Loved One Refuses Rehab
- Share information. Learn about medically assisted detox and share that information with your loved one. Help address any fears and remind them that rehab will not always be painful or scary.
- Ask your loved one what they think life would be like if they didn’t have the daily burden of addiction anymore. Try to launch a discussion. Avoid a guilt trip or a sermon.
- Make it clear how much you love the person you’re talking to, but also make it clear that you won’t be able to help them continue with destructive behavior anymore.
- Consider holding an intervention.
- Have a plan ready to go. Present options when your loved one refuses rehab. Be ready to answer questions about transportation, money, pets, etc.
Hope and Healing at The Raleigh House
The Raleigh House is a residential treatment center located in Denver that believes addiction isn’t just a physical problem. Our master’s level trained therapists get to the root cause of addiction and will help you develop a strategy to manage and enjoy life without drugs or alcohol. Fill out our form or contact us today to learn more about our 90-day drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs.
