When you love someone who struggles with alcohol use disorder, you may feel helpless to stop the harm you see playing out in front of you, and worry about the safety of yourself and others around the person at the heart of the struggle. In fact, it is very common to begin looking for ways to force the person you love to enter a treatment program against their will, just to get some peace. While it is sometimes possible to force someone into rehab unwillingly, we find that the reality of using force like this is often not effective in the long run.
Our staff and leadership has seen first-hand the difficulties thousands of families face when trying to help a loved one struggling with alcohol addiction. Unfortunately, addiction tends to negatively affect the people closest to whoever is at the heart of the struggle. Let’s take a closer look at the criteria for AUD, the question of whether you can force an alcoholic into rehab, alternative ways to support someone, and how our comprehensive treatment programs can provide a lifeline for those seeking recovery and their families.
Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder:
It is important to understand some of the criteria used to diagnose AUD, because it helps put the struggle of an addict in context for everyone involved. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), individuals may be diagnosed with AUD based on criteria such as loss of control over drinking, continued use despite negative consequences, and an increased tolerance for alcohol. Recognizing these signs is the first step in addressing the problem. If you or someone you love demonstrates any or all of these qualities, then it is important to approach the problem carefully and intentionally.
Can You Force an Alcoholic into Rehab?
Is it possible to force someone to go to rehab when they do not wish to admit themselves? This is one of the most common questions among families and friends of individuals with AUD. First of all, the answer depends on what you mean by “force”. No one is likely to make lasting commitments to change their destructive behavior if they are dragged to rehab against their will and tossed inside. However, many people will agree, even reluctantly, to enter rehab after candid conversations with their loved ones. Here are some helpful questions and conversation starters to have with loved ones suffering from alcohol use disorder:
- I care about you a lot, and I’ve noticed that things seem to be difficult for you. How are you feeling?
- I’m here for you no matter what, and I want to help. What can I do to support you through this?
- You’re not alone in this. We’re a family, and we’ll face this challenge together. What do you need from us?
- I’ve been doing some research on rehab programs, and I found a few that seem really promising. Would you be open to exploring these alcohol rehab treatment options with me?
- Rehab can be a powerful and positive step towards recovery. Have you thought about what kind of support you might need?
Pursuing Involuntary Admittance
Determining whether your loved one meets the criteria for involuntary commitment is complex and varies depending on jurisdiction and individual circumstances. Many families reach a point of exhaustion where conversations are going nowhere. In these circumstances, we recommend getting outside help using a professional interventionist. The interventionist specializes in addressing the issue professionally and compassionately, while providing education and insight to the family on alcoholism, addiction, and mental health behaviors. Moreover, they help create a plan for ongoing recovery and rehabilitation and provide support to the family after an intervention.
While involuntary commitment to a rehab facility is possible, it is often a challenging legal process that requires meeting specific criteria and then obtaining a court’s approval. It is nowhere near the first step, and should be supported by an interventionist if it comes to that point.
Rather than resorting to forceful admission to rehab, consider alternative approaches to encourage a loved one to seek help willingly. Ultimately, the person struggling with addiction needs to choose their own path to recovery, so that they can make truly lasting changes. Open communication, empathy, and understanding can create an environment where the individual feels supported rather than coerced, and may willingly enter a recovery program that meets their needs.
How to Get an Alcoholic into Rehab
Getting someone into rehab is a delicate process that requires patience and strategic planning. We advocate for a compassionate and supportive approach that demonstrates understanding of the person struggling with addiction. You can begin by expressing your concerns and feelings clearly, but without judgment. They may very well resist the conversation, or become defensive, so it is important to remain calm and non-judgemental. You may also try sharing information about treatment options and the potential benefits of seeking help.
If your loved one remains resistant to friends and family urging them to enter rehab, consider involving a professional interventionist who can guide the process. An intervention is a carefully planned conversation with the individual about their drinking and its impact on themselves and others. We are glad to offer intervention services to help navigate this challenging terrain with expertise and compassion, as needed.
Alcohol Rehab for Women
Many women struggling with alcohol use disorder do not feel safe or included in a rehab setting, which presents additional barriers to healing. The time away from home and regular routines can be distressing, especially when you’re not sure exactly who else will be in rehab with you. Our alcohol rehab programs cater to people from all walks of life, addressing the specific challenges for each demographic. We offer outpatient services with our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), and our residential treatment facilities are separated by gender. In our women’s alcohol rehab program, the holistic approach we use combines evidence-based therapies, counseling, and support groups to provide a tailored, safe, and effective recovery experience.
Co-Occurring Disorders: Drug and Alcohol Rehab
For individuals struggling with both alcohol and drug dependencies, finding a comprehensive treatment program is essential. It can feel overwhelming to enter a recovery program to address a single substance, let alone two or more. We employ a dual diagnosis approach that addresses both substance use disorders simultaneously, providing an integrated path to recovery.
Alcohol Use Disorder Rehab Options at Integrative Life Center
Alcohol addiction is a formidable challenge, and it is crucial to approach it with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to finding the right help. Whether your loved one qualifies for involuntary admittance to a recovery program is not a simple question, but it is one that is well worth answering. It is also important to consider what kinds of guidance and assistance you may need as your loved one takes their journey to recovery. Our specialized programs include assistance for family members of those struggling with alcohol use disorder who need time to focus on their healing.
If you’re not sure if someone you love truly suffers from alcohol addiction, the first step is to use the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) assessment. This simple yet powerful tool provides a mirror for individuals to assess harmful drinking patterns and determine if they may benefit from professional assistance. Consider taking the AUDIT assessment and learn more about how Integrative Life Center can guide you or your loved one on the path to lasting recovery. Your journey towards a healthier, alcohol-free life begins with the first step, and we are here to walk beside you each step of the way. Call us today at (615) 891-2226 and begin healing today!
