If you’re struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, it’s a wise idea to consider rehab. You are in a safe environment in a drug rehabilitation center and can focus squarely on your recovery. An inpatient rehab center offers multiple therapies and round-the-clock medical support for all patients. It’s the surest way to deal with your addiction permanently and develop new, healthy habits.
Choosing to attend rehab is primarily your decision to make. You don’t have to take permission from anyone, and you can decide not to tell anybody. However, you must consider that your friends, family, and loved ones are integral to your life. There’s hardly any benefit to keeping them in the dark about your decision in most cases.
Informing your loved ones about your rehab decision isn’t an easy task. That’s why we’ve come up with this guide to help you do it much more easily.
Who Should Know About Your Rehab Decision?
Not everyone should know about your rehab decision. Who will make the list of important people to tell differs from individual to individual. You’ll have to consider numerous factors such as who will take care of your kids, foot your rehab bills, etc.
If you’re not sure who to tell, consider writing the names of everyone that comes to mind. Then, write down why you feel they should know about your decision. Only inform the people who you have serious reasons to tell.
Ideally, the important people to tell about your addiction include your:
- Spouse
- Kids
- Siblings and other family members
- Employer
- Closest friends
How to Tell People You’re Going to Rehab
The fear of your loved one’s reaction is one of the reasons why it’s challenging to disclose your rehab decision. However, you must note that your family and friends love you and want the best for you. That’s especially if they are already aware of your drug and alcohol problem.
How you break the news depends on who you’re informing. Here’s how to let this category of people know about your decision:
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Friends and Family
It’s important to schedule a place and time that allows for quality discussion with your friends and family. They need enough time to process what you’re about to tell them. So you’ll need to pick a place that’s comfortable and private enough for everyone to express themselves properly.
Be honest and upfront when informing them about your decision. If it helps, write down what you want to say before the meeting to avoid missing anything. Ensure that you’re calm, understanding, and accepting of their feelings, questions, and concerns.
Apologize for your past behaviors that may have hurt them and explain why this decision is beneficial for everyone. But, again, don’t try to predict what their reactions would be. If anyone tries to discourage you from going to rehab, let them know you’ve made up your mind.
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Bosses at Work
Exercise adequate care when informing your employer about your decision to rehab. Start by doing proper research on your company’s policies on drugs and alcohol. If there’s no such policy, research the healthcare policy for sick employees. Also, learn about your rights under the American Disabilities Act.
You don’t need to worry about losing your job due to your rehab decision. However, if you face any discrimination due to your addiction, you may be able to file a discrimination claim. Also, confirm if you’re eligible for 12 workweeks of unpaid leave under the FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act).
After doing your research, it’s now time to speak with your bosses. Be honest and confident in your decision. Don’t worry about what they’ll think of you. You can make your temporary exit more tolerable for your colleagues by tying up loose ends before leaving.
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Kids and Teenagers
Tell your toddlers that you’re sick and will be away for some time to get well. For older children and teenagers, let them know the negative effects of drug abuse and why rehab will help you to overcome them. Keep your conversations simple and avoid oversharing.
If you can’t talk to your family and friends face to face, consider writing a sincere letter, email, or text message.
Let’s Help You Fight Your Drug Addiction
Realizing that you need help with your alcohol and drug problem is an essential step to healing. Going to rehab can be all you need to turn a new leaf. First, however, you must ensure that you choose a rehabilitation center that caters to your unique needs.
That’s one of the reasons our Durham Recovery Center is the best option. Our personalized approach to curing your addiction is guaranteed to yield the best results. So contact us for help immediately.
