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Pros & Cons Of Involuntary Rehab

Addiction is a subject that leaves families feeling powerless. Parents, spouses , and even siblings sit in silence while their beloved ones seemingly self-destruct. In many cases, our Treatment Specialists take calls from distraught parents spouses, grandparents, husbands, or wives who are calling for their addicted loved ones. So often they ask our Treatment Specialists with the question “How can I make him receive help?” It’s an understandable situation. In a perfect world families would simply be able of confronting the person who is addicted to them – and he or she would agree to get treatment. In this ideal scenario, the addicted person will be happy with the suggestion, and then immediately go to an addiction treatment program. Unfortunately, if you’ve ever dealt with addiction – you know this scenario isn’t often the case. Most likely, there will be arguments, denial or lying, and excuses. So, when you’ve reached the bottom of the barrel Is there a way to force a loved one to seek treatment?

Legally Forcing Rehab

In certain states, family members are legally allowed to force addicted loved ones into an addiction rehab program. Certain states have passed these laws due to tragic deaths resulting from the addiction process and drug overdose. One example of the most famous law governing forced rehabilitation is from Kentucky: Casey’s Law allows family members involuntarily commit family members to addiction. The law was passed following the death of a teenager from an overdose of heroin – and his mother pushed for the law to be implemented and provided resources in other family members. This type of mandate is being promoted in states such as Pennsylvania that, until the present, had only permitted involuntary committment for those suffering from addiction to alcohol or drugs only if they’re diagnosed as mentally in need of treatment. The legislation that is being proposed in Pennsylvania would allow a spouse, parent or guardian to file an involuntary commitment petition to the county administrator to undergo an assessment. Then, the addicted loved one would be referred to a hospital to be examined by a physician who would decide if and for how long the patient will receive treatment.

Pros Vs. Cons of Involuntary Rehab

We work with people from all category of life. People come to us physically engaged, emotionally and mentally and are ready to make change. Some people we treat come to us due to court decisions or child custody disputes. We have also helped people who have come to us because of mandates such as Casey’s Law. We believe that any time an individual is able to enter an accredited rehabilitation facility and receive treatment for addiction, it is beneficial – regardless of how the individual arrived at the facility. However, there some pros as well as cons to forced rehabilitation.

Pros Of Forced Rehab

In states where it is possible to petition the court to require addiction treatment for a loved one, you must prove that he or she could potentially cause harm to self or others. It may seem obvious it is the case that your relative may be at risk of losing his job – or hurting others in the absence of family gatherings. But, the proof typically needs to be to an extent that is higher. Imagine that your loved one is so consumed by heroin that they are unable to seek medical assistance to treat other health issues. In these kinds of situations it is possible to induce rehabilitation. The greatest benefit of involuntary rehab is that it can help save the life of your loved one. Without treatment and intervention, your loved one may suffer a fatal outcome, such as a crash under the influence, or even an overdose. Just because treatment is ordered through the court system doesn’t necessarily mean it’s ineffective. Studies have revealed that even when treatment is ordered by a court most people follow the treatment process and go on to long-term recovery. The court-ordered therapy is still treatment – and his or her chance to truly alter their lives and discover healing.

The Cons of Forced Rehabilitation

Sometimes, families feel like the only method by which a loved one will ever enroll in an addiction treatment center is by the force of. Family members see their loved ones deteriorating right in front of them and they feel helpless. The goal is an involuntary rehabilitation program could help break him or her free from the vicious cycle of devastation. However, forced rehab isn’t always the best case for some individuals. It’s true that addiction isn’t just about enjoyment. Although some families might believe that their loved ones who are addicted are drinking or doing drugs simply because they love it, that’s hardly the case. The reality is that when someone is addicted, the fun is ended. Addiction means that alcohol or drugs become the only security and peace for an individual; they do not bring joy or pleasure. When you force a loved one into treatment, a person might become angry that you took away his or her safety or security. He or she may fail to recognize that your choice was based on love – and instead, feel abandoned by your actions. There’s a fine path to take or a delicate balance to find in the relationship. Alongside these emotions Research has demonstrated that rehabilitation is more effective when someone is motivated and willing rather than forced – to change. When someone is forced into treatment in order to achieve success, the chances of success are inherently less than someone who is determined.

If you’re thinking about forced rehab

The best chance for a success in recovery comes from the help of addiction specialists who employ effective, medical and evidence-based treatment methods. If you are a parent or loved one who is in active drug or alcohol addiction It is vital to make every effort to do in order to help them and convince him or her that they require assistance. Working with a treatment specialist or professional interventionist can help you in your efforts. We recognize that not every rehabilitation situation will be 100% voluntary. But, if you’re feeling that you’ve exhausted all other options, forced rehab isn’t something to be taken lightly. You have to weigh all the benefits and drawbacks, and make the best decision for you and your family.