Dealing with a family member or friend that is addicted to drugs or alcohol can be a stressful, frustrating situation. Addiction is a terrible affliction that ruins lives. It can tear people apart, result in the loss of jobs and lead to financial ruin. No one wants to see someone they care about go through any of that. When it comes to addiction, your loved one may not be able to see (or admit) that they have a problem. From the outside looking in, you are more than aware that professional help may be just what your loved one needs to get their life back on track. Therefore, for their own good, you may be wondering: Can you force a loved one into rehab?
Legal Ways to Force Someone Into Rehab
Typically, when most people envision an addict, they picture a young adult in their 20s or older adults. However, teens can also be addicted to a variety of different substances. Getting your loved one help as soon as possible can ensure that they have the opportunity to live a healthier, happier life. When it comes to teens, forcing them into rehab is a bit easier. Since they aren’t legally adults, you have to make decisions for them that will ensure their health and safety. For young adults and adults who are over the age of 18, forcing them into rehab might be a bit more challenging. In most states in the U.S., a person has to be convicted of a crime before they are forced into rehab. A few states allow friends and family members to bring their case to court, and that may result in forcing the loved one to go to rehab. In other states, they have an “involuntary commitment” rule, but this usually applies to individuals with mental health issues that are a danger to themselves or others. Although, this might be the route you decide to take if their addiction is a danger to their mental health.
Forcing Someone Into Rehab
Deciding to force a loved one to go to rehab can be tricky. On one hand, you want them to get the help they need so that they can live a long, healthy life. On the other hand, forcing someone to do something against their will can be met with a lot of resistance — and resentment. The desire for your loved one to go to rehab should be rooted in love, but it can be hard for the other person to recognize this. They may view your actions as interfering with their ability to make their own decisions and live the life they’ve chosen. Even if you are able to get them into a facility, the treatment program might not work for them. To be successful, they have to be willing to make a change. They may go through the motions while at the facility, but they may revert to old patterns of behavior once they get out. Watching them go through this can be heartbreaking.
Working with Professionals
If you want your loved one to successfully overcome their addiction, they need to recognize they have a problem. This can be hard. However, with some gentle persistence and reminding them how much you love them and support them, you may be able to eventually get them to agree to go to a detox facility. It’s also recommended that you speak to and work with addiction professionals. They have skills and experience when it comes to getting addicts to recognize their issues, and may be able to help you convince them to get help. Of course, there may be times when placing your loved one in rehab isn’t completely voluntary. When that happens, you need to let your loved one know that you are there to support them and want to see them get better. Eventually, they may come around and take responsibility to get better.
Getting Your Loved One the Help They Need
Watching a loved one lose themselves to addiction is incredibly tough. You want to do what you can to ensure they are safe, healthy and happy, and getting them professional help should be at the top of your list. If they won’t go of their own accord, you may be tempted to force them into alcohol detox. This action could give you the desired outcome, or it could backfire. To ensure your loved one is successful in turning their lives around, they have to be willing to make a change. Working with professionals can help with that endeavor. We can help, call now 833-497-3812