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Millions of Americans are battling substance abuse, and of those millions, 70% are expected to develop a dependency on alcohol or illegal drugs at some point in their life, yet only 1 in 10 are receiving help from substance abuse treatment centers. The problem is the stigma around drug and alcohol use.
Many people, including those suffering from addiction, believe they can overcome the problem by willpower or that it is nothing more than a character flaw. “It’s time to change how we view addiction,” Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, the new surgeon general, said in his landmark report on alcohol and drugs. “Not as a moral failing but as a chronic illness that must be treated with skill, urgency, and compassion. The way we address this crisis is a test for America.” Only a fraction of Americans with drug addiction receive treatment for several reasons, and many don’t realize that through effective treatment centers, they have the ability to recover fully and reclaim their lives.
According to the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, the primary treatment barriers identified by substance abusers are:
- past experiences
- fear of what others think
- financial barriers
- lack of knowledge
1. Bad Experiences with Drug Rehab in the Past
Not all drug and alcohol treatment centers are created equally, and not everyone battling addiction needs the same treatment. That’s why it is common to have had bad treatment experiences in the past. At United Recovery Project, we use evidence-based practices and customized treatment programsdesigned around your specific needs. Our staff is positive, caring, and supportive no matter where you are on your journey.
How to Overcome Past Experiences
If at first you don’t succeed, try again. Asking for help is scary and requires courage, and doing it a second time can be even scarier. Be hopeful and give yourself the best chance at recovery by finding a drug rehabilitation center that fits your needs. Give United Recovery Project a chance to prove to you that we’re different from other rehab facilities.
2.Fear of What Others Think
Everyone has some level of fear of what others think. Because of the negative stigma that surrounds addiction, you may feel alone in your struggle, or like those you love won’t accept you if you tell them the truth. If this fear is keeping you from getting the help you need, there is a way to overcome it
How to Overcome Stigma
You can’t control what other people think, but you can control your own actions. Admitting to yourself that you are struggling and need help is the first step. Second, educate yourself about addiction and commit to a full recovery. Meeting with others who are going through experiences similar to your own will help you feel less alone. Engaging in a personalized treatment program and meeting with a therapist will help you love yourself despite what others think and surround yourself with only those who love you unconditionally.
3.Financial Barriers
Many people assume that inpatient drug and alcohol treatment programs are expensive. However, you should consider treatment as an investment in yourselfUnited Recovery Project offers rehab insurance and several payment options. We will work with you to make sure you can afford the help you need.
How to Overcome Financial Barriers
You may have more of an ability to pay for rehab than you think. Educate yourself on all the payment options you qualify for and contact United Recovery Project to see if your insurance will lower your out-of-pocket expenses.
4.Lack of Knowledge
Many people worry about not knowing where to get help. Rather than go to the first place you hear about, doing your research is imperative to finding the right program to fit your needs. This can get overwhelming as there are a variety of programs available, and there may be several that seem like a good fit
How to overcome a lack of knowledge
Rather than give up because the options are overwhelming, reach out to someone from your support circle like a loving friend or family member and ask them for help researching your options. Make a list together of what you’re looking for in a program, compare your options, and then make phone calls to your top choices. Don’t be afraid to contact one of our treatment consultants at United Recovery Project for answers to all of your questions and concerns.
Take the first step to overcoming barriers to receiving treatment by reaching out and asking questions. Contact us today to learn more, and we’ll be quick to answer your call. You can also take an online facility tour to see what our residential housing looks like. We know that you’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery of Hollywood, Florida and the surrounding area and we’re confident that our customized treatment plans will set you up for a positive rehab experience and a successful recovery.
Resources and References
https://www.aafp.org/news/health-of-the-public/20161122sgreportdrugs.html
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/18/us/substance-abuse-surgeon-general-report.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1986793/
https://unitedrecoveryproject.com
https://www.unitedrecoveryproject.com/rehab-insurance/