Why do so many addicts flat-out refuse to get help or seek treatment? Anyone who has a loved one dealing with addiction has most likely asked themselves that question at some point. Addiction is a serious disease, and without treatment, most people can’t overcome it alone. Unfortunately, many users aren’t ready to take the first step toward recovery.
Addiction affects millions of people worldwide. It’s also a leading cause of death for too many individuals. Luckily, in-patient centers and iop treatment are proven options for those struggling with addiction. But getting help can feel scary. Here are some reasons why someone struggling with addiction might be reluctant to seek treatment:
1. Not Ready to Quit
Many people find solace in drugs or alcohol. They turn to their vice of choice in order to escape reality or avoid trauma. These substances increase dopamine levels, providing momentary pleasure from troubling events or circumstances. This dopamine rush also makes an addict crave another “fix.” The urge to continue using often outweighs their desire to seek treatment. If someone wants to overcome addiction, they must be ready to quit.
2. Living in Denial
Denial is perhaps the most common reason addicts don’t get help. Many social circles view drinking and drug use as acceptable activities. All too often, addicts don’t fully see the severity of their illness and think they can quit using at any time. Others don’t believe they are addicted in the first place. The first step in any addiction treatment plan is for the user to admit to themselves that they have a problem.
3. Fear of Failure
Between 40 to 60 percent of addicts experience a relapse after treatment. The fear of relapsing keeps many addicts from seeking treatment. Even after completing treatment, the risk of relapse always exists. Addiction doesn’t go away. Instead, people with a substance use disorder must learn how to manage their disease over time. And even after a relapse, it’s possible to get back on the path toward recovery.
4. Afraid of Detox
Detox is an important part of the substance abuse treatment process. For many users, it’s also the scariest step. Detox involves removing all traces of drugs or alcohol from the person’s body. When completed in a safe, well-monitored environment, minimizing or eliminating any unwanted side effects is possible. But despite being manageable, many addicts face a real fear of detox. Some will even choose their addiction over facing a couple of days in detox.
5. Resistant to Change
Change is never easy, and after a while, addiction becomes a familiar way of life for users. They often surround themselves with fellow addicts. The mere thought of changing their lifestyle or being ostracized by their friend group can be overwhelming. An unwillingness to accept change prevents many people from going into treatment. It takes a lot of courage and commitment to leave the life you know behind to begin living sober.
6. Judgment by Others
People worry about what others think of them, and addicts are no different. Entering treatment might draw unwanted attention. The user might become the topic of discussion among friends, family, co-workers, or everyday acquaintances. This gossip could leave the person with an addiction feeling embarrassed or uneasy. Instead of putting their story on display, some users will avoid getting help entirely.
7. Avoiding Emotions
During recovery, addicts must explore a full range of emotions. Treatment forces users to face suppressed thoughts and feelings, including trauma from the past. Confronting these demons is difficult, but doing so will help the addict understand why they turned to drugs or alcohol in the first place.
Treatment Should Be Your Next Step
Is a loved one struggling with substance abuse? There is hope. Seeking treatment isn’t always an easy decision, but it is the best way to overcome addiction so that they can live their best life.