3 Common Excuses People Give to Avoid Addiction Treatment
Watching someone you love struggle with addiction can be one of the most heartbreaking things for their families or friends to witness. The person with a drug or alcohol addiction may be so dependent on their substances of choice that they may seem to resist almost all their loved ones’ attempts to help.
People with drug or alcohol dependencies may say whatever they think will help them avoid rehab, and we’re going over the top 3 excuses we hear from people so that you can be empowered to better help your friend of family member struggling with addiction.
1. ‘I can stop whenever I want to.’
This statement can be a form of denial, where individuals underestimate the impact of their substance use on themselves and others, often believing they have more control than they actually do. Often this will be accompanied by unsuccessful attempts to quit or cut back use—itself one of the criteria clinicians use to diagnose a substance use disorder.
Substance use disorders can have a wide range of impacts on individuals’ lives. While some people experience significant challenges in relationships, employment, and other areas, others may appear to maintain a degree of normalcy.
However, it’s important to recognize that even seemingly functional substance use can still be harmful. Family and friends should remain aware of the potential for negative consequences, regardless of outward appearances.
2. ‘I know someone who went to treatment and relapsed, so why should I go?’
Relapse as an indicator that treatment won’t be successful is a bargaining tactic that is often used to justify continued substance use, almost as if to say “why bother?” However, it’s important to acknowledge that relapse is a part of the recovery journey, one that highlights the challenges of overcoming substance use.
In fact, many experts view relapse as a natural step in the process, and those who recommit to their well-being after a relapse often achieved even greater success in maintaining their sobriety. While recovery can be difficult, it remains a worthwhile and, more importantly, achievable goal.
3. ‘All my friends do drugs and drink alcohol. What am I going to do after addiction treatment?’
It’s common to feel a sense of loyalty to those with whom one has shared experiences with substance use. However, treatment offers a chance to build a new community of support, where connections are built on the foundation of shared recovery goals.
Family and friends can highlight that treatment provides a familiar understanding, but with the added benefit of a collective commitment to positive change. This allows individuals to forge meaningful relationships within a supportive environment, focused on building a fulfilling life in recovery.
Helping a Loved One With Addiction
Drug or alcohol use can take a heavy toll on a person’s health, relationships, and quality of life. If your loved one is struggling, we can help. At American Addiction Centers, we’ve helped thousands of people reclaim their lives from addiction and find hope, health, and happiness.
If you’d like to explore treatment options, our caring admissions navigators are here to help. Call us at to share your story, discuss payment options, and receive personalized guidance on supporting your loved one’s journey to recovery.
