Discussing rehab with your family is not something anybody with addiction would look forward to doing, mainly because the step is bound to be both overwhelming and emotional. At the same time, however, talking is an important component of seeking addiction help treatment.
Preparation goes a long way in making such a discussion as constructive and supportive as possible. Here are six things you should know before you take this courageous step.
Educate Yourself About Your Rehab Options
First things first, before trying to discuss rehab with your family, educate yourself about treatment facilities and what they have to offer. Every place is unique in its programs and methods.
For example, Arrowwood Addiction Treatment Center in Virginia creates treatment plans specifically for the person in treatment; they do not go by the one-size-fits-all approach. Being fully informed will provide the basis for your talking points reassuring your family members, who will also have lots of questions and apprehension.
Understand the Emotional Landscape
Of course, one should be aware of your family being emotional, too: confusion, guilt, sadness, and even anger. This does not mean that they don’t love you; it is merely a response to the worrisome circumstances. Prepare yourself for a whole range of family members’ reactions by reassuring them it’s a positive decision to get professional treatment.
Choose the Time and Place
Timing and setting matter a lot when it comes to engaging in serious conversations like these. Choose a time when everybody is calm, not preoccupied with anything else, and responsive. A quiet place away from noise and chaos, where emotions well up without interruption, is the best-case scenario.
Most importantly, avoid tense circumstances or talking to them when someone is in a hurry to and has other responsibilities to attend to. Moods and reactions will get in the way, hurting even the best-intended dialogue.
Be Honest and Open
Honesty is the best tool when it comes to talking about your need for rehab. Describe how the addiction has affected your life and why you’re seeking help. Do not minimize or sugarcoat anything, as family members need to be made aware of how grave the situation has become.
Use “I” statements, such as “I need help” or “I want to change,” which will keep the attention on your journey and avoid blame or defensiveness.
Emphasize the Benefits of Professional Treatment
Mostly, families are afraid of the unknown. Sideline their fears by telling them what addiction treatment is and how it will be able to help them in their path to long-term recovery. Explain to them that a good rehab facility treats patients with compassionate care. The approach is nestled within evidence-based practices that will reassure them professional help will make a difference.
Request Their Support Without Demanding It
Be prepared that not everyone thinks at the same speed, even when you may wish for unanimous encouragement. Invite your family to be part of your support system, but give them time to adjust. Explain to them how their support could facilitate ease in your journey, but be sensitive to any apprehension they may have.
First Steps Taken Together
It is never easy to bring up addiction and rehab, but it is a bold move, and it is an indispensable one. You can lay the foundation for a successful talk by educating yourself, picking the right time, and being straightforward. Remember, your decision to seek treatment for addiction is one of hope and healing not only for you but also for everyone who loves you.
Arrowwood Addiction Treatment Center understands how much courage such a step requires. Their caring and personalized approach empowers you and your family to navigate recovery together. Giving you unwavering support from that first call to discharge, they want to help you achieve long-term success in your sobriety.