Almost everyone has someone close to them who could benefit from alcohol or drug rehab. According to a Pew Research Center survey conducted in August of 2017, nearly half of all U.S. adults say that they have a family member, friend, or other loved one who is, or has been, addicted to drugs. The leading research journal found that 12.5 percent, or one in eight, U.S. adults suffer from Alcohol Use Disorder.

Only about 10% of all people addicted to drugs or alcohol seek treatment for addiction.

If you are reading this article, it’s safe to assume you have been having sleepless nights and anxious, racing thoughts concerning your loved one. You pray every day that they are safe and will get help soon. When the phone rings, you are terrified that this is the last call. It seems hopeless, but you refuse to give up hope that they can turn their lives around.

This article will provide some advice and insights into how to convince someone to go to rehab.

You Don’t Have to Wait for Them to Hit Bottom

We’ve all heard it before. “Someone only gets sober when they hit rock bottom.” While it’s true that most people don’t seek treatment or help until they have experienced some consequences for their using and drinking, rock bottom does not have to be jail, homelessness, or hospitalization.

It is a good idea, though, to wait to discuss rehab or to get sober until your loved one has a moment of clarity—a time when they are sober and receptive to love and suggestions.

Be Prepared with Knowledge about Rehab

Being in a relationship with an addict or alcoholic is an extremely emotional and stressful situation. It’s easy to want to get upset. However, this often can make someone with a problem feel attacked. When people feel like they are being attacked, they are less open to suggestions and go into defense mode.

Research and understand what rehab is, what it isn’t, and what different rehabs, detoxes, and treatment programs are. That way, when there is that moment of open-mindedness, you can be ready with some options and insights to share.

Be Easy on Yourself

Alcoholism and drug addiction happen to the best of families. Substance use disorders affect all socioeconomic and ethnic groups at practically the same rates. No one quite knows who some people suffer from addiction or alcoholism while others, even in the same family, exhibit almost no risk of developing a drinking or substance use problem.

It is natural to feel guilty or to have some shame, and it is okay to feel your emotions. There are family support groups that are available for loved ones of addicts and alcoholics. There are many resources that can help you to continue living effectively and happily, even during these difficult times.

Plan an Intervention (Carefully)

An intervention is a group effort. Make sure that everyone who is present is there for the same reason: to help the loved one get the help they need. You can have preliminary meetings with everyone who is going to present, practicing what they’ll say and how they’ll say it. Make it clear that it’s about supporting the loved one rather than talking about what they’ve done wrong.

Use “I” Statements

“I” statements are used to express how a situation makes us feel without placing blame and expressing anger towards somebody. Rather than saying, “You’re using is killing me,” we can instead use empathy and I statements and say, “I love you, and it hurts me to know that you are using. It isn’t so much your using that bothers me, but that it feels like you don’t mind that it hurts me.”

There are a variety of different ways you can use I statements, and depending on your relationship with the loved one addicted to drugs or alcohol, you should tailor your I statements accordingly.

Present Evidence of Your Loved One

Sometimes, someone addicted to drugs or alcohol are not aware of their actions while under the influence. You can video record, take pictures, save text messages, playback voicemails, etc. to show them.

This can be a powerful way to show them that their actions are hurtful and that their drinking or drugging is a problem. Evidence like this is unbiased and has been powerful wake-up calls for many addicts who are now sober.

Don’t Give Up

We never know when someone is going to “get it.” Someone could be ready to get treatment and help when we least expect it. When someone is finally willing to enter rehab, make sure to capitalize on that moment. Being prepared to get help can be a brief window, so be prepared and ready when that time does come.

Take the First Step Toward Healing—We’re Here to Help

Supporting a loved one through addiction is an act of profound courage and compassion. At Boardwalk Recovery Center, we understand the emotional toll this journey can take on families and friends. Our mission is to provide not only evidence-based treatment but also a community of understanding and support.

We specialize in treating a wide range of substance use disorders, including alcohol, opioids, stimulants, and prescription medications. Our dedicated team comprises licensed clinicians, many of whom have personal experiences with recovery. This unique perspective allows us to connect deeply with our clients, fostering a sense of trust and empathy.

If you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to guide you. Reach out to us to begin the admissions process. Together, we can embark on a path toward lasting recovery and renewed hope.