September 12, 2022
Telling people you're going to rehab can be daunting. Here are some tips on how to share with your loved ones about your decision to seek treatment.
Overcoming addiction is never easy. No matter how much willpower you have, this is not enough to quit drinking or taking drugs on your own. It will help if you have external support to help you work towards your recovery. Rehabs provide customized treatment plans in a healing environment to resolve issues that prompted your addiction.
Additionally, you can learn skills needed to maintain a productive, healthy, and fulfilling life. It helps you develop new habits and routines that can be useful once you reintegrate into society. This includes getting enough sleep, keeping a healthy diet, communicating with others, and much more.
Despite its many benefits, rehab is seen by others in a negative light. Some people think those who go to rehab just lack discipline. This misconception stigmatizes drug treatment and increases shame for those who are only trying to reach out for help.
We know how difficult it is to share your addiction story with your family and friends. If you're unsure of how to tell people you are going to rehab, this article will help you.
First, explain to them the reason why you need it. Say that you're going to get help for a medical issue and hope to reconnect later when you're better. If it's daunting for you to talk with them face to face, you can use other forms of communication, like writing a letter. If you'd like to speak with them regularly, you may explain the visitation and communication rules of the facility.
Before holding this important conversation with your loved ones, take some time to prepare and keep in mind the following:
When breaking the news to your family and friends, choose an appropriate time and place. Don't just mention it in passing. Give them time to accept and process what you’ll be saying. Setting up a lunch or dinner at home can make you feel comfortable discussing your situation.
It's hard to tell others you have been struggling with substance abuse. But if your loved ones are already aware of it, it probably won't hurt to share the extent of your addiction. You may explain to them the reasons why you're seeking professional treatment.
How did you end up at this point? Did your addiction stem from peer pressure, curiosity, or as a way to cope with your problems?
Be sincere and let them know you want to change. Tell them that you are prioritizing your health this time so you can share a healthier, happier, and more productive life with them.
Explain How They Can Get In Touch With You
It's typical for family and friends to worry about you while you're away. Before going to rehab, confirm with the facility about their communication and visitation policies.
Most places restrict using cell phones while undergoing treatment. They may also set a particular time where patients aren't permitted to contact anyone from the outside unless there's an emergency.
Take note that the schedule of calls and visitation ultimately depends upon the facility and the treatment program you're participating in. Explain these rules to them and the length of your stay in rehab.
If you're embarrassed to speak with your loved ones in person, writing a letter can be a good alternative. While it may not be as intimate as having a conversation, it's still a good way to communicate.
Handwritten notes allow you to be more deliberate when presenting your life update. It can also save you from unexpected reactions, reducing your anxiety and giving them more time to process it.
You can't expect everyone to be supportive of your decision to enter rehab. Some people will feel upset or confused once you tell them you'll be gone for a while.
Let them know you understand and respect how they feel. Tell them that you regret causing them pain in the past and that entering a rehabilitation facility can help heal those wounds. Additionally, you may respond to their questions and worries.
If somebody tries to talk you out of rehab, remember that it's because of their issues and triggers. What matters is that you stay focused on your goal, and that is to get better.
Being vulnerable to your loved ones can be a scary proposition. After all, there's always the fear of being criticized. Despite that, admitting to them that you're ready to go to rehab is necessary to jumpstart your recovery. It also provides the following benefits:
Talking openly to people you're close with is hugely beneficial for your mental health. Sharing with them about your addiction and your willingness to admit to a rehab facility can provide a cathartic release.
It can be challenging to recover on your own. By telling people that you're going to rehab, you may get the encouragement, comfort, and guidance you need.
Breaking someone's trust is easier than rebuilding it. Maybe there were many promises you couldn’t keep during your time as a drug dependent. By finally deciding to enter treatment, you can gradually regain your loved one's sense of trust in you and renew your relationships with them.
After figuring out how to tell your family you are going to rehab, it's time to prioritize your well-being. Regardless of how they would react to your news, don't let it affect you. Instead, stay sharply focused on breaking free from addiction. Make sure to maintain a good outlook in life and a healthy lifestyle as you work towards achieving sobriety.
Another Chance provides a selection of addiction treatment programs to help in your recovery process. We will work with you closely to ensure you get a suitable treatment plan for your specific requirements. Call us today at 971-248-8899.
.svg)
