People do not decide to enter an addiction rehab program lightly, even when they know they have a problem. Circumstances are different for each person seeking addiction treatment. However, many face similar roadblocks to getting started on the path to recovery.
The famous saying, “where there is a will, there is a way,” may apply to overcoming the challenges of taking that first step. Read on to learn some ways to overcome some of the most common roadblocks to starting a drug or alcohol rehab program.
The Cost of Rehab
The first thing that comes to many people’s minds when thinking about treatment is the cost. There is a strong belief that insurance does not cover rehab and that it is unaffordable to pay out of pocket. Most insurance coverage providers include drug and alcohol rehab in covered services. In the event that someone does not have insurance or their policy does not cover substance use disorder treatment, there are other options to help pay for treatment, including grant or state-funded programs, scholarships, and affordable payment plans.
When looking at it honestly, addiction carries much more expenses than the cost of a rehab program. Between court fees, theft and property damages, emergency healthcare, and lost or decreased productivity, it is estimated that illicit drug use and alcohol abuse costs in America total more than $600 billion annually. In this total, what is not accounted for is the heavy emotional, social, and physical toll on the person affected, their family, and their friends.
Time Commitment of a Residential Rehab Program
Another common roadblock to seeking addiction treatment is the time commitment. Many people decline to seek treatment because they believe it will take too much time away from their work or families. While the average inpatient residential rehab program is typically 28-30 days, addiction treatment centers should always tailor to a person’s need, which means the amount of time spent in a rehab program will vary.
When considering the time commitment, it is helpful to remember that addiction is a chronic disease, just like diabetes or cancer. It requires professional care and often lifelong management to maintain wellness. It is not something that one can will away. Neglecting to treat a substance use disorder steals more time than any treatment program ever would. In the end, the measure should not be calendar days but the quality of life.
Career and Job Responsibilities While in Addiction Treatment
People will often hesitate to seek treatment for addiction because of job responsibilities. They may feel they “can’t miss work” or worry about delaying career goals. Many are also afraid that their employer will fire them if they reveal they have a substance use disorder.
In reality, the effects of a person’s addiction will cause more damage to their career than the time off needed for treatment. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), federal programs such as the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and flexible, outpatient treatment options, such as intensive outpatient programs (IOP), can all be considered when trying to ease concerns about balancing work and rehab.
The Fear of Losing “Friends” in Sobriety
Many in addiction find themselves surrounded by others that participate alongside or contribute to their addiction. They may feel they have built friendships with those in their environment, not realizing those participants or bystanders are only enabling their habit. Addiction treatment may require breaking away from these “friends” and leaving what has become a comfort zone.
Upon taking the first step toward recovery, most people find a proper support system. A wide-reaching community of people who understand just what they are going through is there. Recovery allows them to build a new environment that is safe and productive. They can create real friends that advocate for their well-being.
Denying an Alcohol or Drug Problem
Denial is the most challenging roadblock to overcome when seeking addiction treatment. There is no simple solution to overcome this barrier.
The turning point for some may be a heart-to-heart with loved ones. It may be losing a job or an important relationship. It could be an injury or arrest. Some may not find a significant objective that leads to a realization that they have a desire to change. Addiction is a disease that affects the brain. People often lose the logic needed to recognize that it is a problem. Ways to help minimize this roadblock include learning about the science of addiction and the types of help available. Understanding the disease may help people feel better about seeking help for themselves or a loved one.
Addiction is a serious disease that needs to be treated with the same care as other chronic illnesses. While it may seem there are many roadblocks to recovery, they can all be overcome. The key is to remember the end goal: a healthy, productive life!
—
From the first call to a life in recovery, Bradford can guide you or your loved one through every step of the process. Call us at 888-762-3740 or start a live chat to speak with a Care Coordinator. We’re here 24/7.