Common Excuses for Not Seeking Treatment

If you recognize that you have a problem with substance abuse or addiction – or if you see it in someone else – you may be delaying getting help for any number of reasons, some of which are discussed in more detail below. But fighting addiction without professional help is difficult, to say the least. In some cases, it may also be dangerous to not have help during the process. If you find yourself making any of the following excuses, it may be time to rethink your decision and take the first step toward finding a rehab facility.

What are commonly perceived barriers to going to rehab?>

• I can’t afford it. Many people use the cost of rehab programs as an excuse not to enroll in them. However, there are many different options for treatment – including options for every budget. In the long-run, rehab is a much better investment than continuing to put money toward an addiction that is destroying interpersonal relationships and other facets of the addict’s life. Finally, recent legislation (i.e., the Mental Health Parity Act) may have increased your insurance coverage for mental health – including addiction – treatment. Also, read How to Pay for Rehab>.
• I’m embarrassed. Unfortunately, some people avoid both admitting that they have a problem and seeking treatment because of lingering social stigmas associated with addiction. But a recent survey shows that, as a whole, Americans are changing their attitudes for the better (Read How Americans Perceive Addicts and Addiction). It takes courage and strength to admit that you need help. Remember that your family and friends love you very much and have your best interest at heart. They want to see you happy and fulfilling your potential!
• I don’t have the time. In some cases, this excuse is used when an addict’s priorities and perception of their life have become so out of touch with reality that the addict is distressed at the prospect of modifying a schedule that is – compared to the urgency of their addiction – not particularly pressing. On the other hand, executives and other professionals who may have been able to hide their addiction and remain moderately functional in the workplace may perceive a rehab stay as a detriment to their career. But in both cases, rehab will improve their productivity in the long run as the addiction is removed from their lives. Many rehab facilities are also designed to accommodate professionals who need to keep up with what is going on in their workplaces.
• It’s too far away. Many people have developed an inaccurate perception of rehab facilities. Although there are many facilities located in beautiful settings – like on the coast or in the mountains – there are also rehab facilities (both inpatient and outpatient) in almost every city across the country. In some cases, people choose to go to a facility that is physically distant from their problem, but, in other cases, patients want to remain close to their family and friends – for support and other practical reasons.
• They won’t understand my needs. Rehab facilities often offer both individual and group counseling. Programs can be tailored to the needs of any person or situation. Some treatment centers even specialize in accommodating certain groups – like teens, women, Christians, or executives, to name a few. There are as many types of treatment as there are people who need it!
• It might help some people, but my situation is hopeless. Addiction can be lonely; it is often associated with depression and can be triggered by life stressors. Many people with substance abuse problems fall into a cycle of negative thoughts, which create negative emotions, which, in turn, create negative, self-destructive, and self-deprecating thoughts. If they find themselves in a social environment that encourages this thinking, the circumstances may be dramatically worse. No situation is hopeless, and every person’s life is worthwhile. Even people who have been carrying the burden of addiction for decades can return to healthy, productive lives. The key is to recognize this and step out of your comfort zone to get on the path to recovery.
• I don’t really need it. The first step in the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step program is to admit that you have a problem. Because addiction is a complex physical and psychological problem, most addicts do need some sort of professional assistance to safely and successfully overcome addiction. Also read How to Deal with Denial.
• I don’t know where to start. The prospect of finding a rehab facility can be overwhelming when you begin to get a sense of just how many options are available to you. Contact eDrugRehab today for more personalized assistance (more info below). You can also read What to Ask a Rehab Facility.

How can I get the process started?

Call eDrugRehab today. If you are looking for help for yourself, our addiction specialists can guide you in choosing an appropriate rehab facility. If you are trying to convince a loved one that they have a problem, our professional interventionists can help you arrange, prepare for, and implement an intervention. Whatever your situation, the most important – and most difficult – step is the first. The good news is that you don’t have to fight addiction alone. Visit the contact us page to learn more.