How to Tell Friends and Family You’ve Entered Rehab

Are you going to rehab but your friends and family don’t know anything about it? Here are a few tips on how to inform them of your decision to begin your recovery.

The United States declared a war on drugs in the 1970s. Unfortunately, it’s only gotten worse since then. In 2009, 23.5 million people over the age of 12 needed treatment for drugs or alcohol abuse.

There is still a stigma surrounding getting help for addictions. Many people avoid getting the help they so desperately need because they’re afraid of how the people they love will react.

If you’re ready to enter rehab, congratulations. To help you ease into a new, healthy chapter of your life, we’re sharing with you how to tell your friends and family you’re going to rehab.

Provide Reasons Why You’re Going

There are many reasons why getting help to get sober is a great idea. You’ll save money, feel happier, and be more in control of your own life.

Unfortunately, because of the stigma that addiction still carries, some people may not be as supportive as you’d like them to be. That’s okay.

Let them know that you’re planning on going to gain support, strength, and professional expertise to help you deal with an addiction. Obviously, if you could abstain on your own, you would have already done that.

Let them know you’re putting yourself first so that you can share a happier, healthier, more productive life with those you care about.

If you find that someone close to you still argues against getting help, realize it’s their own struggles and triggers causing them to speak against it. Then continue down the path that’s best for you.

Only Tell Those You’re Comfortable With

Your close friends and family will probably already be aware that you’re going to rehab. They’re probably feeling their own sense of happiness and relief.

However, it’s up to you whether or not you feel comfortable telling extended members of your family or acquaintances about rehab. If you prefer that someone not know, ask those who do to keep quiet about your treatment until you’re finished.

It’s okay not to share intimate details with your younger children. They may not fully understand. However, with older children, they should be a part of the conversation.

Explain to your kids what addiction is and why it’s an illness. Speak to them in an age-appropriate manner and answer all their questions honestly.

If you’re worried about how work will take the news, you can always ask for a sabbatical. Go with what feels right.

There’s really no single right way to go about this process. It’s also not everyone else’s business what you do.

However, if the word does get out about your drug addiction treatment plans, don’t allow yourself to feel embarrassed or ashamed. Getting help is the strongest and toughest thing you can do for yourself.

Explain How You’ll Communicate While in Rehab

Many loved ones worry about what will happen when you’re gone. This is especially true for family members who live with you.

Before going to rehab, contact the facility to get a full understanding of what their communication rules are. Many places don’t allow you to use your cell phone while you’re getting treatment.

Talk to your friends and family members about how often and when you’ll be able to speak with them. It’s also a smart idea to provide them with an understanding of how long you’ll be in the treatment program.

Get Support from an Outside Source to Help Manage Emotions

People who struggle with addiction get triggered easily. Dealing with their emotions is not their strong suit.

That’s why it’s a smart idea to talk to one of the counselors before going to rehab. They can help you devise a plan of action on how to tell friends and family that you’re getting help.

One of the best parts of rehab is the support you’ll gain while you’re there. Start taking advantage of it as early as possible. The more you allow yourself to feel supported, the better chance you’ll have of succeeding in the program.

If you don’t feel comfortable asking the rehab center, ask a good friend or loved one to be with you when you tell others.

Explain What Actions You’re Taking to Get Better

Most addicts are pretty good at lying to both themselves and those around them. In the past, you probably told yourself and others that you were doing fine and could stop whenever you wanted.

Now you realize you were only fooling yourself and your loved ones. Your past behavior might make them feel a little skeptical when you tell them you’re finally getting the help you need.

If you’ve failed at rehab before or just tried to quit on your own, they may wonder why this time should be any different. That’s a legitimate concern on their part.

Share with them what steps you’re taking to get better. Going to rehab is a commitment, but getting healthy is an ongoing, lifelong process.

Knowing what actions you’re taking will not only help alleviate their worries about you, it will help you as well. Now, you’ll have your own guide to help you navigate your way to a healthier, happier you who is free from addiction.

Share the Literature

Not knowing what to expect is scary. Most people fear the unknown.

Which is why it’s a good idea to share literature and information about drug rehab programs with your loved ones before going to rehab. Let them see exactly what the rehab facility looks like.

Have them read testimonials from past patients who have succeeded in turning their lives around. Talk to them about the various treatment plans you’ll be using.

Explain the Benefits of Going to Rehab

Share with your loved ones what you’ll gain by going to rehab. In rehab, you’ll learn how to handle your mental and emotional issues.

You’ll also be focused on improving your physical health. But rehab also helps family members and loved ones gain a better understanding of you and your addiction.

This is a time where everyone involved can begin to heal if they’re open to it.

If you’re still struggling with finding the right way to tell people about rehab, contact us. We’ll help you find the right words at the right time.

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