Addiction is debilitating — and it’s far more common than we tend to think.
According to a report published by the Pew Research Center, 46% of Americans have a friend or loved one who is battling or has battled a substance abuse disorder.
Seeing someone we love struggle with an addiction can be heartbreaking. We want the best for them, even if they’ve hurt us in the past.
It may feel like you’re powerless to help, but your words and actions may save your loved one’s life.
Read below for some choice hints on how to get someone to go to rehab.
Educate Yourself
The best thing you can do to get someone into rehab is present them with facts.
Convincing someone to go to rehab isn’t easy, and it shouldn’t be taken lightly, so conduct thorough research.
Put yourself in their shoes and see what they may be going through, how they got addicted in the first place, and what could happen should they not get sober.
With the proper resources, you’ll be able to best present your case for sober living.
Host an Intervention
Interventions are almost synonymous with addiction. And although they’re common, they’re quite easy to mess up.
Should you choose to host an intervention for a loved one, make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons.
Begin by including only essential individuals. An intervention may be embarrassing for the addict, so keep it to close friends and family.
Always approach from a standpoint of love and compassion as opposed to anger.
Most addicts struggle with guilt as it is, and guilt alone isn’t enough to encourage a healthy lifestyle.
Finally, make sure you have a list of resources ready for your loved one should they choose to heed your advice and seek treatment.
Be Firm, Yet Understanding
It’s difficult to predict how a loved one will react to your efforts.
Whether they react in fear, anger, or sadness, it’s important that you stand your ground after presenting your case.
They’ll likely claim that they don’t need addiction treatment services, or claim that you’re trying to control them.
It’s important to let them speak their mind. But it’s just as important that you stick to your guns.
Don’t back down. Getting a loved one into rehab can change the course of their life for the better.
Use the Right Language
During these discussions that you have with your loved one, be careful about the language you choose to use.
Avoid argumentative or accusatory language.
Keep these words out of the conversation:
- Can’t
- Won’t
- Junkie
- Ruining/ruined
- Wrong
- Alcoholic
In short, anything that can seem like a personal attack is best left out of your vocabulary. Aim to be supportive, even if you’re frustrated.
How to Get Someone to Go to Rehab and Save Their Life
These tips on how to get someone to go to rehab can help you convince someone you love to get the help they need.
Above all else, remember that a loving, caring attitude can do wonders — even in the toughest of situations.
If you’re looking for more information about addiction or wish to schedule a tour of our facilities, get in touch today.