Can You Force Someone Into Rehab?

Addiction is a subject which makes families feel powerless. Family members, spouses, and parents are left in the dark when their loved ones seemingly self-destruct. Many times, our Treatment Specialists take calls from parents in desperate need spouses, grandparents, husbands, or wives who are calling on behalf of their loved one who is addicted. Many times, our Treatment Specialists here with the query “How can I help him get help?” It’s an understandable situation. In an ideal world family members would be able to confront the person who is addicted to them – and he or she would agree to get treatment. In this ideal world the addict will be happy with the suggestion and be able to immediately begin a rehab program. If you’ve faced addiction, you’ll know that this isn’t always the case. Most likely, there will be arguments, denial as well as excuses and lies. And, if you’ve reached the bottom of the barrel Are there ways to convince your loved ones to undergo rehab?

Legally Forcing Rehab

In some states, relatives can legally coerce addicted family members into an addiction rehab program. Certain states have passed these laws because of tragic deaths related to alcohol and other drug abuse. One example of the most famous forced rehabilitation laws is found in Kentucky: Casey’s Law allows family members to voluntarily commit their family members to addiction. This law was passed in the wake of an individual died of an overdose of heroin and his mother advocated for intervention and support for other families. This type of mandate is now being pushed in states such as Pennsylvania that, until the present, had only permitted involuntary commitment of people suffering from drug or alcohol addiction only if they’re deemed as being mentally sick. The legislation that is being proposed in Pennsylvania will allow a spouse, parent or guardian to file an application for voluntary commitment to a county administrator for an evaluation. The addicted loved one would be referred into a facility for health care to be examined by a doctor who would determine whether and how long the individual will receive treatment.

Pros vs. Cons Of Involuntary Rehab

We work with people from all walk of life. Certain people are physically or mentally and in need of change. Some people we treat have come to us because of court orders or child custody issues. We have also helped people who came to us because of mandates such as Casey’s Law. We believe that anytime one is admitted to an accredited rehab center and receive addiction treatment this is beneficial, regardless of how the person arrived at the facility. There is a pros and cons of forced rehabilitation.

Pros Of Forced Rehab

In states that make it possible to ask the court to order addiction treatment for a loved one, it is necessary to show that the person could risk harm to oneself or others. It might seem obvious for you to know that the person who is your family member is harming himself by losing a job, or is hurting others in the absence of family gatherings. However, this type of evidence typically must be at a higher degree. Imagine that your loved one is so addicted to heroin that he is failing to seek medical assistance for any other health issues. In these kinds of situations it is possible to make the decision to go through treatment. The greatest benefit of involuntary rehabilitation is that it can help save the life of your loved one. Without treatment and intervention, the person you love could be a victim of a fatal outcome like a car crash while under the influence and even an accidental overdose. Even though treatment is arranged through the court system doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not effective. Indeed, research has demonstrated that, even when treatment is ordered by the court system the majority of people continue their treatment path and enter long-term recovery. An order from the court is still treatment and her chance to truly make changes and find healing.

Contraints Of Forcing Rehab

Often times, families feel like the only method by which your loved ones will enroll in an addiction treatment center is through force. Families watch their loved ones breaking apart in front of their eyes and they are left feeling powerless. The hope would be that involuntary rehab could snap him or her from the vicious cycle of devastation. But forced rehab isn’t always the best case for some individuals. It’s true that addiction isn’t about enjoyment. Some families may think that their loved ones with addiction issues drink or do drugs simply because they love it, this isn’t the case. The reality is that, by the time a person is dependent, all fun has out of the picture. As a result of addiction, drinking or using drugs becomes the only security and peace for the person suffering from addiction. They aren’t about pleasure or joy. By forcing a loved one to go through rehab, the person may feel resentful because you have taken away his or her security or security. He or she may fail to comprehend that your decision is based upon love and instead, feel abandoned by your actions. There can be a fine line to cross or a delicate balance to find in the relationship. Additionally, to these feelings, research has shown that rehab is more effective when someone is motivated and willing – instead of being forced to change. If a person is forced into therapy and is not motivated, chances of success are inherently lower than a person who is enthusiastic.

If you’re contemplating forced rehabilitation

The greatest chance of successful recovery happens with self-help with addiction experts who use effective methods of medical and evidence-based treatment strategies. If you are a parent or loved one who is in active addiction to alcohol or drugs it is crucial to do everything you are able to in order to lovingly help them and convince them that they are in need of help. A treatment specialist or professional interventionist will assist you in your efforts. We know that not every rehabilitation situation is 100% voluntary. But, if you’re feeling like you’ve exhausted all other options, forcing rehab isn’t something to be taken lightly. You must weigh all the benefits and drawbacks in order to make the right choice for your family and yourself.