Addiction is everywhere, and it can be incredibly challenging to treat it and convince others to get help for it. While it might seem like having a substance use disorder (SUD) and entering an addiction treatment program has become fairly normalized, addiction stigma can still be a huge roadblock to sobriety.
The best way to overcome stigma is through education. Exposure to recovery narratives or stories may have the potential to break down addiction stigma, a strong trigger for discrimination and recovery obstacles. For example, one study suggests exposure to people with opioid use disorder (OUD) helps medical professionals become more open-minded about treating them. The bottom line: sharing your story may do a lot of good for you, your loved ones, and society at large.
How To Tell Your Family You’re Going To Treatment
Many people worry about being judged for their addiction (a clear sign that addiction stigma exists). Other people can feel overwhelmed by feelings of guilt for causing disappointment to parents, spouses, and children. It’s important to acknowledge that feeling nervous or anxious about sharing your decision to enter treatment is completely normal.
In light of all of this, it’s crucial to understand that seeking treatment is a sign of strength and responsibility, rather than weakness. Below are some useful tips for approaching the conversation.
Tips For Having The Rehab Conversation
Firstly, share what’s necessary and comfortable:
- Choose a private, calm space to hold the conversation
- Decide in advance what details you want to share
- Set personal boundaries about what aspects of your addiction you’ll discuss
- Prepare answers for questions you might get, like the whys, whens, and hows of your addiction
- Remember you’re in control of your narrative
Secondly, honesty is the best policy:
- Explain that recovery is a significant challenge that you’re ready to face
- Acknowledge that the process won’t be easy and will be ongoing after treatment ends
- Share your hopes for what treatment will help you achieve
- Be upfront about the length of the program and what it entails
Thirdly, discuss logistics:
- Discuss how to handle work or school obligations
- Make arrangements for childcare if needed
- Plan for pet care or home maintenance
- Set expectations about communication during treatment
Fourthly, prepare yourself for the following scenarios:
- Receiving immediate, unwavering support
- Hearing others communicate that they need time to process what you’re saying
- The expression of shock or denial
- Feelings of anger, hurt, or betrayal
- A wave of questions, concerns, or demands
Remember that an initial reaction isn’t necessarily a final one. Give your loved ones time to adjust to the news, and don’t expect an immediate resolution.
Choosing Specific Approaches for Different Relationships
For closer family members, you’ll want to have information about our treatment program on hand for them. You can also refer them to our website. Be prepared to explain how they can support you while you’re in treatment, and share what family services are available for them.
When you’re communicating with kids, assure them that they’ll be cared for and that this is not their fault. Emphasize that you’re going to treatment to be a better caretaker for them, and be very clear and honest about communication while you’re in treatment. It could be a wonderful idea to involve a family counselor or child therapist in the conversation.
If you’re speaking with employers, know your medical leave rights and benefits. It may streamline the discussion if you have paperwork from your healthcare provider on hand. Guide the conversation toward your commitment to recovery and your return-to-work plans. Additionally, you may want to involve HR in the conversation to keep a clear record.
Contact Waypoint Recovery in South Carolina For More Tips
Waypoint is here for you, and we’re pros at helping our clients share their unique recovery stories. If you’re afraid to be honest about going to treatment, contact us today and we can provide the resources and the support that you need to communicate with those in your life who need to know what’s going on.
