People who are addicted to substances don’t always receive the help they need. Loved ones may try to reach them, but they may either be in denial or far enough into their substance use disorder that they can’t feel anything else except wanting to numb the pain. People who need treatment are not likely to seek it out on their own (though it is possible). Everyone’s journey with substance use disorder is complex and unique. A combination of factors likely plays a role in how they view themselves with a substance use disorder and in recovery. There are many reasons some people struggle to get help, and being aware of those reasons can help support loved ones who need treatment.
Best Foot Forward
Treatment is a huge goal to aim for and it is not always the right one at the right time in the mind of someone with substance use issues. Someone who goes to treatment before they are ready is not going to submit to the process and embrace it willingly. They may try to stop their use without success many times and finally get frustrated enough to give up. This can lead to relapse, overdose, or worse. Generally, people who are trying to put their best foot forward and make the situation work for them can continue with their substance use disorder for a long time before they finally accept that they have a problem. Some of these reasons may include:
- Health coverage concerns and access to affordable care.
- Unwillingness to stop.
- The inconvenience of attending treatment and not ready to make the time commitment.
- Cost of going to rehab, including lost wages.
- Not wanting to give up old friends or habits for fear of not fitting in.
- Denial that there is even possibly a problem.
- Not sure what resources exist, overwhelmed by the choices, or unsure where to start looking.
- Fear of treatment and how their life will change.
- Shame in admitting a problem exists.
- The stigma attached to those in recovery or residential treatment centers.
- Undiagnosed or undertreated mental health concerns that may encourage self-medicating.
These and many other reasons are concerns about how people view the need for treatment. They may want to quit and speak out, but they do not commit to it fully. Giving in to the need for treatment means fully surrendering an old life in order to have a new one emerge (albeit through a lot of struggle in the beginning and hard work).
Finding Treatment Options
The best treatment options are hard to find because they are not always the most obvious ones. Everyone needs something different from their treatment, so treatment programs should be tailored to meet an individual’s needs. The most effective treatment program should ensure people in recovery can be involved with co-creating their experience.
- Inpatient: treatment offers a structured process where the person lives on-site. During inpatient treatment, they reside in a substance-free facility and receive medical and therapeutic support. This helps people with chronic relapse, battling long-term substance use, and for those who struggle with co-occurring medical and mental health issues
- Outpatient: treatment that is comprehensive but flexible. They do not cohabitate with the other people in treatment, they can live with family or on their own while attending treatment. Requires more focused intention on their part to come and go as they need to for treatment
- Detox: helps people withdraw from substances and alcohol and requires close monitoring by professionals. Often the first step in the treatment of people with a substance use disorder. Detox sometimes requires medication supported recovery to help ease the severity of symptoms and titrating down from medications until the person is not physically dependent any longer.
- Sober living homes: operate as a go-between for inpatient treatment and a great option for people in recovery who need time to figure out how to use what they learned in treatment and integrate it into their lives. Sober living helps people strengthen their habits while living in a structured environment, which allows them to make the needed adjustments while still being involved in a community of support.
- Medications: Medication may be provided for some people who need it in treatment, depending on the program. People with substance use disorders may be more sensitive to medication. Still, when supervised by medical professionals, the use of medication can contribute to improved wellness and help someone get to a good place of recovery.
Staging an Intervention
An intervention takes place between someone who has a substance use disorder and a loved one. They are likely tired of seeing their loved ones suffer and desire to help them in some way. Staging an intervention takes time, energy, and money. It makes sense to pay someone to help if the process is confusing. The number of intervention counselors has grown, and they are easy to find in most places to help make the process successful and less stressful. There are many moving parts and things to consider when seeking treatment and having the best chance of successful recovery.
Ashley Addiction Treatment is an innovative treatment program located on Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay. Ashley provides support for professionals seeking help with addiction. We are able to help people with co-occurring disorders and offer confidential treatment programs to meet your needs. Please reach out to us today at 800-799-4673.