Although millions of people struggle with addiction, only between 10-20% receive the help they need.[1] There are many reasons why people delay getting addiction help. Some people don’t want to get sober and others don’t realize that their problem is bad enough to warrant going to rehab. However, if you’re questioning whether or not you need help for addiction, the answer is probably yes.
Deciding to seek treatment for addiction is a courageous and life-changing decision. But how and who do you ask for help? Moreover, how do you choose the right substance abuse treatment program for you?
If you’ve never been to rehab before, you probably have a lot of questions and concerns. Our team at Moving Mountains Recovery center understands just how intimidating it can be to surrender to your addiction and admit you need help. We also know how challenging the recovery process can be if you embark on your journey alone. That’s why our team is here to assist you in any way we can, every step of the way.
Signs You Need Addiction Treatment
Figuring out whether or not you need professional addiction treatment can be tricky. Your mind may tell you that you have control over your substance use, but your friends and family may say otherwise. Or, you may not feel as though your substance use has gotten serious enough, and that going to rehab simply isn’t for you.
A few signs that indicate it’s time to find addiction help for yourself include:
- Your friends and family are concerned about your substance use and/or your wellbeing
- You want to stop using drugs or alcohol and have tried to do so but were unable to stay sober
- You continue using drugs or alcohol to avoid the withdrawal symptoms that occur when the substances wear off
- Your personal relationships, career, finances, and/or mental health are suffering as a result of your substance use
- You have engaged in dangerous, risky, or even illegal behaviors either to obtain your substances or while under the influence
- You feel as though you cannot cope with daily life without using drugs or alcohol
If you have been experiencing any of these symptoms in relation to your drug or alcohol use, you can benefit from attending a local substance abuse treatment center.
Building The Courage to Ask For Addiction Help
Admitting to yourself that you have a problem with drugs or alcohol is one thing, but asking for help and admitting your struggles to another person can be even more challenging. After all, there is a lot of stigma surrounding the idea of addiction, and you may be scared that your loved ones will look at you differently if they know the truth. You may also be fearful that your job or future employers will find out about you going to rehab.
First and foremost, the people who truly care about you care about your wellbeing, and they don’t want to see you ruin your life with drugs and alcohol. More than likely, your close friends and family will be excited that you are getting real help and more than willing to help you begin your recovery journey.
Second, addiction treatment centers are healthcare providers. That means they must comply with healthcare privacy rules like HIPAA. A drug rehab center cannot share your information with anyone unless they have received your written consent. Rehab also does not go on your permanent record, so there is no way an employer will find out that you have gone to rehab unless you willingly release that information.
If you’re still scared to make that phone call to ask for help, you can ask a trusted friend or family member to call a rehab center for you. While you will have to speak to the admissions coordinator on the other line, doing so can be easier if you let someone else make the first phone call.
Choosing The Right Addiction Treatment Center
Now that you’ve overcome your fear of asking for help, it’s time to choose the right substance abuse treatment center. Not all rehab programs are the same, so it’s important to choose the one that is right for you. Some factors to consider include:
- Type of programs offered – Some addiction treatment centers offer detox and others do not. Some offer a full continuum of care with inpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient, while others only offer outpatient services. On the other hand, some treatment centers use a purely holistic approach without medications, and others embrace medication-assisted treatment (MAT). It’s normal if you don’t know which program is best for you. By speaking with an addiction specialist, you can learn about which program is best for your specific needs.
- Location – Decide if you want to go to a rehab near you or one that is further away. Some people prefer seeking addiction help locally because it means they are close to family, friends, and work. Others prefer traveling for rehab to get away from their usual environment and start fresh.
- Therapeutic methods used – Various treatment centers may approach recovery differently. Some use a strictly therapeutic approach while others use a spiritual or religious approach. Others use adventure therapy or wilderness exercises to promote healing. Many addiction treatment centers combine these various aspects, however, it’s important to do your research before choosing a program.
- Specialties – Some rehab centers will have certain specialties, such as dual diagnosis care, LGBTQ+ services, groups for pregnant women, and more. Be sure to research the special services offered by various rehab centers to make sure they can address your unique needs.
Lastly, you’ll want to do your due diligence in choosing a trustworthy, quality rehab provider. The treatment center should have transparent billing policies, bachelor’s or master’s-level therapists, and evidence-based care. They should also be licensed in the state that they practice.
Working With Your Health Insurance
Perhaps one of the most important aspects to consider when finding addiction help for yourself is your insurance coverage. The easiest and most affordable way to pay for rehab is to use health insurance. Although all health insurers are required to cover mental and behavioral health treatment, not all treatment centers accept every insurance policy. Similarly, your insurance may not pay for your care at every rehab center. As a result, it’s vital to choose a rehab center that is in-network with your health insurance.
In-network providers have agreed to provide treatment services at a discounted rate to people covered by specific health plans. There are two ways you can find an in-network drug rehab center:
- Call the number on the back of your insurance card and ask an agent to refer you to an in-network facility.
- Call the addiction treatment center(s) you are interested in and verify your insurance benefits with an admissions coordinator.
Choosing an in-network provider will make sure your treatment is covered and that your insurance will cover any medical costs including inpatient, outpatient, detox, medications, and more.
Preparing for Rehab
Now that you’ve chosen a substance abuse treatment center that meets your needs, it’s time to prepare. You may not have very long to prepare because you will be in a hurry to begin your recovery, however, there are a few things you can do.
Before going to rehab:
- Pack appropriate clothing, personal items, and toiletries
- Put together a list of important contacts so you can connect with loved ones during rehab
- Arrange care for your children or pets
- Tell your friends and family how much you love them
- Get rid of drugs, alcohol, or paraphernalia in your home and/or personal belongings
- Put any optional subscriptions on hold
- Ask someone to collect your mail or watch your house while you are gone
Finally, say goodbye to your loved ones, and start looking forward to a healthier, happier life in recovery.
Find Addiction Help for Yourself Today
Asking for help and finding the right rehab center can be challenging, but that’s why we’re here to help. Our dedicated admissions counselors are available 24/7 to take your call, assess your needs, verify your insurance, and help you begin your recovery journey. Don’t wait any longer. If you are struggling with addiction, please pick up the phone and contact us today.
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