Drug and alcohol rehabilitation will help people struggling with addiction to overcome their problems. A rehab program will address the psychological and physical aspects of the addiction; with long term sobriety in mind.
Unfortunately, there are many obstacles to face before and during rehab. These obstacles can be incredibly difficult to face and to get around, but if one is strong enough, they can have overcome these obstacles. The proof is shown on the day when they are walking out of rehab, completely sober.
This will be a two part article. The first part will discuss obstacles that individuals may face before going to rehab. The second part will talk about various obstacles that may occur during rehab.
Obstacles to Face before Rehab
Obstacle 1: Denial
Most people with a drug or alcohol addiction are unable or unwilling to admit that they have a problem. When an individual is in denial, they only allow themselves to fall deeper into the destructive force of addiction. While others are around the individual may see this, the addict does not; he or she believes that they are in control of their life and not the addiction.
Denial is difficult to get past, but when an individual can get out of the phase of denial, they will be more open to getting treatment at a rehab.
Obstacle 2: Co- Dependency
Co- dependency is one of the most common obstacles that prevent an addict from going to rehab; women often are more affected by this obstacle. Many times they began taking drugs or drinking excessive amounts of alcohol because their spouse or significant other did the same. When they are ready to get treatment, they may decide not to, mainly out of fear; fear that their relationship will be harmed during the process.
It may take strength and will power, but anyone who wants to get help, can get help.
Obstacle 3: Co-Curing Condition
It is common for individuals with addictions to have co-curing conditions (also called dual diagnosis). Many times, the addict does not get the proper treatment for their addiction because their symptoms are misdiagnosed. It is rather common that an individual may be treated for depression, but in reality has an addiction to alcohol; thus, the addiction was the culprit to many of the addict’s problems, while the therapist or doctor was unaware of the possible addiction.
If a loved one is attending counseling meetings (regarding depression or other mental disorders) with the addict it is not a bad idea to mention to the counselor about any excessive drinking or drug use. This allows for a better diagnosis, which leads to the right type of treatment for both conditions.
Obstacle 4: Shame
Some people may understand that they have an addiction, but are too ashamed to admit it and seek treatment at a rehab. They are afraid of how their family, friends, co-workers, etc. will view them if they were to go to rehab. More times than not, what the addict does not understand, is that if their loved ones knew they had a problem and knew the person wanted help, would support them.
An addiction is never something to be ashamed of; there is always non-judgmental supportive help available.
Obstacle 5: Enabling
It is common for a spouse, parent, or close loved one to enable the addict. When the addict is too hung-over to go to work, the spouse calls in and says that he or she is ill. Perhaps the addict cannot afford to get high and throws a fit; their parent may not want the added stress, so they give their son or daughter money, which will be used to purchase drugs. This is very common and it says to the addict that their using is okay or at least tolerable. As they know all the ways to get their way and there is no punishment. Because of this behavior they may see no need to go to rehab at the current time.
It is important for the enabler to realize their actions, become strong, and learn to say ‘no’.
Without professional treatment at a rehab, anyone with a drug or alcohol addiction will only get worse. A rehab will give them the support they need and the necessary treatment to help them to achieve sobriety. As difficult as these obstacles may seem, they can be dealt with.
Do you or someone you know need treatment for an addiction? Contact The Cabin Chiang Mai today.
