Although treatment is essential to successfully recovering from substance abuse, the truth is that most people who suffer from alcohol or drug abuse do not seek professional help. There are several factors that hinder them from getting treatment, from the expensive fees to a fear of stigma. However, regardless of the reason, all sufferers of substance abuse must receive professional treatment as soon as possible.
Substance abuse is an incredibly common yet insidious disorder. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, over 31 million people suffer from drug abuse alone. Some people are able to quit with the help of family, friends, or even support groups; however, others require more intensive treatment under a professional. Understanding the barriers to substance abuse treatment is crucial, since it helps sufferers healthily address these in order to get the treatment they need.
Here are four obstacles that many sufferers experience when seeking substance abuse treatment:
Expensive Treatment Costs
Treatment can be incredibly expensive, so for those who are unable to afford it, this often leaves them feeling abandoned. However, thanks to the efforts of support groups and rehabilitation facilities, insurance providers are now able to cover treatment for substance abuse disorders.
Rehab facilities are now able to coordinate with insurance providers to make sure that the treatment for each patient is covered, with respect to the appropriate length and type of treatment. These facilities can now base the cost according to the patient’s income, which makes treatment more affordable and accessible.
Refusal to Acknowledge Problem
Another major obstacle to substance abuse treatment is when patients do not acknowledge that they have a problem. Their refusal to attend rehab is rooted in their perceived lack of a disorder, or that they believe they can fix it on their own. Sometimes, sufferers truly think that they can quit their substance abuse by themselves; other times, they actually aren’t interested in quitting.
Getting a sufferer to admit they have a substance abuse problem is important to making sure they seek treatment. They begin to see the value in recovery and receiving professional help, which will help them recuperate smoothly and successfully.
Avoiding the Stigma
Even though substance abuse is a widely known problem, many people choose not to seek treatment in fear of what their family, peers, or even coworkers will think of them. Thanks to the stigmatization of addiction, there are still plenty of people in society who judge others for seeking professional help. As much as possible, sufferers would want to avoid this.
However, sufferers may not know that their loved ones would much prefer for them to seek recovery rather than let it fester. While there may be a stigma attached to attending rehab, this often doesn’t matter to the friends and family of those suffering from the disorder. What’s more important is that the sufferer is in the recovery process and is receiving all the help they need.
Treatment Schedule Conflict
Another obstacle to seeking substance abuse treatment is the conflict of schedule. Recovery is often a lengthy process, as people are less likely to relapse if they spend extensive time and dedication into getting better. However, many people can’t afford to take a three-month break from their jobs to attend rehab.
In fact, many people with substance addiction fear of losing their jobs while they’re seeking treatment. Inpatient facilities often insist that patients place their full attention into their recovery during rehab, but outpatient treatment is often just as effective. It’s flexible enough to allow individuals to seek treatment while keeping their jobs. Additionally, there are plenty of supportive employers that allow employees to return to their jobs after attending rehab.
Conclusion
Although substance abuse treatment offers many benefits for those struggling with addiction, there are many barriers that discourage people from seeking help. Understanding these reasons and knowing how to address them will not only encourage sufferers to seek treatment, but it will also help destigmatize substance addiction recovery.
If you or a loved one are in need of substance abuse treatment, be sure to visit California Addiction Help. We are a team of caring individuals that has a large network throughout the state to help you find quality California drug rehab centers. Addiction help is only one phone call away; be sure to reach us at (800) 779 4715.