6 most common excuses addicts give to avoid treatment
They Would Rather Not Be Embarrassed
One of the common reasons for excuses given by addicts to avoid treatment is when they feel embarrassed. There’s an immense fear of public shaming among addicts, who don’t want anyone—family, friends, or colleagues—to know about their addiction. In numerous instances, they are dealing with some kind of trauma that may have been caused by others judging them. The good news is that you can overcome your embarrassment by realizing that your addiction is not a reflection on you as a person; it’s a reflection on what you were going through at the time. Once you realize there is nothing to be embarrassed about, it will be easier for you to seek help. You’ll also need to recognize that seeking help doesn’t mean you’re weak; in fact, it takes strength to ask for assistance when you need it.
You should also think about creating a plan for telling loved ones and family members once you decide to get clean. A professional counsellor can work with you on how best to go about telling those close to you, so they can provide support while respecting your privacy at the same time.
They Don’t Think They Are Addicted
Most people believe that only certain types of people become addicted. In reality, addiction knows no boundaries when it comes to gender, age, race or social status. Anyone can become an addict; everyone is at risk. You must reach out for help if you think your behavior has taken on a dangerous tone. There is no shame in seeking treatment. Seeking professional help will not just improve your life —it will keep you alive. One of many reasons why addicts would give excuses to avoid treatment is because they don’t think they have a problem. If you are someone who can take or leave your addiction, that’s fine. But, if you find yourself constantly fantasizing about it or unable to resist it even though it’s causing concerns in your life, you may want to consider changing your behaviours before they get out of control.
The sooner you admit there’s a concern, the sooner you can begin taking steps toward recovery. A good first step is speaking with a friend or family member about what you’re going through. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with another person makes it easier to open up without feeling ashamed or embarrassed. Chances are, that person will be more than willing to listen and offer support as long as they know what’s going on.
They Are Afraid of What Happens in Treatment
If a person is afraid of what will happen if they enter treatment, it is important for them to understand that addiction recovery programs are not like jails or prisons. They offer encouragement and support, but there’s no forced confinement. They Need Their Loved Ones: If an addict’s loved ones are all they have in their lives, then they may need new loved ones. The best way to get new friends is by going into a recovery program because everyone in their group will be fighting against drugs and alcohol abuse. There Is No Reason to Stop Using Drugs and Alcohol: When people feel they don’t have any reason to stop using drugs and alcohol, it can be hard for them to see past their pain.
However, when people think about why others would want them sober, such as family members who care about them or friends who don’t want them to destroy themselves, these thoughts can help them inspire to change and break off giving excuses that addicts commonly do.
They Don’t Believe in Therapy
All too often, addicts give excuses and avoid getting help because they don’t believe in therapy or don’t want to spend money on it. If you have a problem and aren’t willing to go see a therapist, then you are exactly right — you don’t have a problem. An addiction is a disease of mind, body, and spirit. In order for someone to help treat your addiction, they need to access all three aspects of your life. Most people who get sober through 12-step programs will tell you that going to meetings was just as important as going to therapy. The two work hand-in-hand. Many therapists also offer sliding scale rates so that more people can afford their services.
It’s not about what you think; it’s about what works best for you, and if professional help can get you there faster than self-help alone, then why wouldn’t you take advantage of that? If you require help to find a therapist, contact your insurance company or check out Psychology Today’s listings. If paying out of pocket isn’t an option, ask your doctor if he or she has any recommendations based on any previous patients they may have had. And finally, even though many people do find recovery by working with sponsors and members at 12-step meetings (and I am one of those people), I do understand that some people prefer to work with professionals instead.
They Have Other Priorities
Excuses, like I have too much going on right now, may seem reasonable, but in reality, there are plenty of ways addicts can get help that won’t add more time to their plate. It’s true that finding time for addiction recovery can be difficult, but according to Alan Marlatt, Ph.D., director of the Addictive Behaviours Research Center at the University of Washington in Seattle, it’s all about managing expectations. If you want to do something badly enough, you will find a way to do it—and make time for it, he says. The trick is figuring out what is significant in life and what isn’t so necessary. If getting sober is important enough, people will figure out how to work it into their lives.
If you don’t prioritize it, you won’t do it, Marlatt says. And if you don’t start doing it today, tomorrow will be another day, and then another day. And before long, a year has gone by without any real progress being made toward your goal of recovery. So yes, saying no to other things is part of making room for sobriety.
They Just Want To Do It on Their Own
Sometimes people just don’t want to get help. This can be a hard obstacle for you, as someone who cares about their loved one, but it’s essential not to try to force them into treatment. While some people do go through withdrawal on their own, without any outside assistance, it isn’t recommended and can be extremely dangerous for their health. Remember that addiction is a chronic illness – like diabetes or heart disease – and requires ongoing medical management. You should always encourage your loved one to seek professional help when they are ready. You can also offer support by attending family counseling sessions with them and helping them find a good treatment center in your area. If they aren’t willing to participate in these steps, at least know that you have done everything possible to help them.
Don’t let yourself become discouraged if they continue using drugs; there is no shame in trying your best and knowing when to step back. Addiction recovery takes time, so stay positive and keep encouraging your loved one even if it seems like nothing is working. It will take time, but eventually, addicts will realize that getting help is worth it rather than giving excuses. And if they don’t? You still did all you could, and there’s no shame in that. The most important thing is that you stay safe during their use and remain healthy yourself. Keep taking care of yourself physically, emotionally, spiritually, financially, etc., and trust that your actions today will positively impact tomorrow.
That said, … It Is Possible To Have Fun Without Drugs: Recovery doesn’t mean giving up on having fun. In fact, now more than ever, you need to create an active social life that revolves around doing things besides using drugs. Take up a new hobby or learn something new together as a family. Or try going out dancing every weekend!
Conclusion
Overcoming addiction is no easy feat, but it can be done. Talk with your doctor or consult a professional at a treatment centre near you for more information on recovery and rehabilitation options. Remember: each day without drugs and alcohol is an accomplishment, so don’t let addiction define you—it doesn’t have to control your life any longer. It’s not too late to start living again. The road ahead may seem long, but remember that it gets easier every day as you work toward sobriety. If you believe in yourself and trust in your ability to recover from addiction, you will make it through. You are stronger than your addiction. You are smarter than your addiction.
Furthermore, you are capable of overcoming anything if you put your mind to it. Don’t forget that! Good luck The most difficult part of overcoming an addiction is admitting you have a problem. It’s even harder when you’re scared, but not hopeless. Addiction can kill, but it can also be cured. If you or someone you love is suffering from substance abuse or addiction, get help immediately. And remember: It’s never too late to seek treatment—for yourself or for your loved one. And remember: It’s never too late to seek treatment—for yourself or for your loved one.
