While drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs are often very helpful for many people dealing with these forms of addiction, the sad reality is that too low a percentage of these people ever receive this form of treatment. Many forms of research show that over 70% of people who manage alcohol addiction never receive treatment for it, and in many cases this is due to certain unfortunate barriers that may exist.
At Moonlight Mountain Recovery, one of our chief missions is helping take down these barriers for anyone managing alcohol addiction or other forms of addiction. We offer caring inpatient and outpatient treatment programs across Boise, plus nearby states like Washington and Oregon, and we also work with family members or friends of those struggling with addiction to find ways of helping them find interest in receiving valuable treatment. Here are some of the largest and most common barriers that may get in the way of this, plus how friends and family can help those dealing with alcohol addiction to overcome them and look to treatment.
Belief That Nothing Will Help
Sadly, one of the single most common barriers to getting treatment for alcohol addiction is the belief that nothing can help. This may be a result of past experiences, or simply an overwhelming feeling of helplessness in the face of an addiction that’s taken over one’s life. Many people with alcohol addiction firmly believe that no matter what, nothing can help them.
It’s important for friends and family of those dealing with addiction to be understanding and supportive in this regard. Helping them to understand that there are treatment options available which can assist them in overcoming their addiction goes a long way towards overcoming this all too common barrier.
Furthermore, this involves not just reminding your friend or loved one that options are available – but connecting those options with positive outcomes. You can help them to see that treatment can be a viable and beneficial option, rather than a hopeless last resort.
Stigma
Another major barrier that many people struggle with when looking for addiction treatment is the stigma associated with it. Many people feel ashamed or embarrassed to admit to having an addiction, and this can make them less likely to reach out for help in the first place.
In order to help those dealing with alcohol addiction overcome this particularly difficult barrier, it’s important to have honest conversations with them and to provide an open, understanding environment. Remind them that they’re not alone, and that addiction is a disease like any other. At Moonlight Mountain Recovery, we also work with our patients to develop positive coping mechanisms and strategies for dealing with their addiction in a healthy way.
Unwillingness to Change
In some other cases, the primary barriers to alcohol addiction treatment come from within. Many people may struggle with an unwillingness to change, and feel scared or intimidated by the prospect of making serious changes in their lives.
It’s important for friends and family to be patient and understanding in this regard, as the decision to seek treatment is ultimately one that must come from within. Encourage them to take small steps towards sobriety, and to focus on the positive aspects of treatment. Remind them that although it may be difficult, ultimately they’re doing something very brave and worthwhile.
Not Knowing Where to Go
One of the most unfortunate forms of barrier that can exist is a lack of information about available treatment options. Many people who are struggling with alcohol addiction may not know what kind of help and assistance exists out there, or where to look for it.
In this case, it’s important to provide any relevant information you can find, such as our website here at Moonlight Mountain Recovery. We provide comprehensive information about our alcohol addiction treatment program, as well as advice and information about what to look for in a quality treatment center.
Financial Concerns
Finally, another major barrier to treatment is financial concerns. Many people may struggle with the cost of alcohol addiction treatment, or be worried about taking time off work in order to attend a program.
However, there are some important realities here to help remind anyone in this position of. For one, the 2010 Affordable Care Act requires that insurance plans cover necessary treatments for mental health disorders – and various forms of substance abuse, including alcohol addiction, are included in this. Additionally, while the time away from work may be difficult initially, ultimately it can greatly benefit one’s career and health in the long run.
By understanding the various barriers to alcohol addiction treatment that can exist, we can strive to help our family and friends make informed decisions about their recovery journey. Here at Moonlight Mountain Recovery, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care and support for those who need it, whether in Boise or surrounding states like Washington and Oregon. Our team is here to answer any questions or concerns you may have about alcohol addiction treatment, and we look forward to helping you find a path towards recovery.
