One of the most difficult things in life is to have a loved one who is drug or alcohol addicted and not seeking help. The natural instinct is to try to force or pressure the individual into a Malibu rehab facility, but this instinct is not often helpful and may create more difficulties.
The reality is you cannot force a loved one into a Malibu rehab facility. In some cases, a court may become involved and order treatment, which is an option your family may want to consider in consultation with an attorney.
However, if this is not a possibility, there may be options to talk to your loved one about the importance of being admitted into a Malibu rehab facility. The way this is approached and the message you convey can help a person to see the importance of getting help and taking that first important step to admit to a problem.
Timing of the Discussion
When planning your conversation about attending a Malibu rehab facility with your loved one, timing is important. Choose a time when you are both calm, and you haven’t recently had a disagreement about the addiction and the problems it is causing in your lives.
It is never a good idea to have the conversation when the individual is impaired, nor is advantageous to talk when they are feeling upset, depressed or defensive after being intoxicated or under the influence.
Talk without Judgement or Blame
While it is natural for parents, spouses, siblings or partners to be very angry with the addict, talking without heaping on blame, shame, judgement and condemnation is critical.
Instead, focus on the specific behaviors and how you see a change in your relationship. Focus in on your desires for their happiness and safety, not about all the dangerous and self-defeating behaviors they are using.
Use Open-Ended Questions
To introduce the idea of going to a Malibu rehab facility use open-ended questions instead of questions requiring only yes or no answers.
For example, instead of saying “You want to get help, don’t you?” try wording the question more along the lines of “Want would you like to do differently if you could?” This question could then be followed up with “What can I do to help you achieve that change?”
If you have a loved one you think would benefit from attending treatment through a Malibu rehab facility, give the facility a call. Intake staff can be very helpful in assisting you in preparing for the conversation and providing information about their programs.
At Serenity Malibu, we are here to help family members get their loved ones the treatment they need for recovery at our Malibu rehab facility. To learn more about our services or to get help with talking to a loved one, see us online at www.SerenityMalibuRehab.com.
