If you’re seeking treatment for addiction, your mind is probably swirling with questions and doubts. Most of those what-ifs and doubts tend to boil down to one thing: fear.
You may fear the unknown. You may fear withdrawal. You may fear failure…or success. From the treatment process to figuring out how to pay for rehab, it is perfectly normal for people who are seeking treatment to face multiple fears.
Here’s the good news: It’s possible to overcome those fears and move forward with successful treatment. Following is a list of tips and insight to get you started.
Do Your Research When Seeking Treatment for Addiction
Fear of the unknown can keep you from seeking treatment. So, make things more known. Do some research (something you’ve already started by reading this blog)!
Look into treatment options and read about programs available near you. Find out what you can expect from your first day in rehab. Learn what the entire process is like.
You can’t predict every detail of any experience, but doing research can at least calm some of your fears. And you won’t feel like you’re going into it blind.
This knowledge can take your anxiety down several notches…and you don’t have to fear the unknown.
Let the Experts Handle the Hard Stuff
Maybe you’ve heard scary stories about the withdrawal process. Here’s the truth – it can be tough. But it will be so much easier if you go through it with professional help.
If you’re in addiction treatment when you stop using, doctors can provide medication and other treatment to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. And detoxing while in treatment is so much safer – and so much less painful – than trying to go cold turkey all alone at home.
With excellent support around you to see you through withdrawal, you’ll have the help you need. And keep in mind, this phase is only temporary. Once you’re past these withdrawal symptoms, you’ll be on your way to recovery and a healthier life.
You Don’t Have to Break the Bank
Sure, movie stars spend thousands of dollars a day on treatment in spa-like luxury rehab centers. But don’t worry, there are affordable options for the rest of us. And “affordable” doesn’t mean you have to give up quality treatment in a comfortable, beautiful setting, either.
If you’re worried about the cost of addiction treatment, it’s easy to get past this fear. Simply look at the many options available. There are community-based programs available at low-cost, and some government-funded programs offer public assistance. (Some are even no cost.) Other treatment facilities may offer scholarships or payment plans based on your income.
Federal law made mental health services – including treatment for addiction – a mandatory condition for health insurance coverage. The same goes for Medicare and Medicaid, too.
There’s also the option of fundraising online. You could ask friends and family to offer support by chipping in to help to pay for your treatment.
The bottom line is: There are affordable options for treatment, so don’t let fear of cost be a barrier to sobriety.
Take Baby Steps When Seeking Treatment for Addiction
There’s a reason Alcoholics Anonymous members use the phrase “one day at a time.” The thought of change can be scary. Thinking about all the changes and challenges you’ll face getting sober can be overwhelming…but it doesn’t have to be.
Yes, you’ll be making big changes. But you don’t have to focus on the big picture all at once. These are positive changes, and they’ll happen over time. Your treatment will be planned in small steps.
You only have to take one thing at a time. One step at a time. One day at a time. Just stay right here in the present and focus on that one next step.
You don’t have to fear the future.
Put Addiction Recovery Supports in Place
Nobody wants to walk out onto a rickety bridge that looks like it’s ready to collapse. You’d feel better about walking across a bridge that’s well-supported, right? Why not do the same for your recovery?
As you begin seeking treatment for addiction, put supports in place that will make your path easier…and less scary.
These supports fall into two main categories: internal and external.
- Internal supports are practical things you can do to improve your health and outlook. These steps help you learn to cope with challenges and avoid relapse. They include exercise, a healthy diet, consistent rest, and activities that help you relax.
- External supports are the many resources available to you through others. You’re not in this alone. Treatment often includes support groups, your own personal support system, and personal counseling. Others have been where you are, and they’re ready to help make your recovery process as smooth as possible.
With strong internal and external supports in place, you can step into treatment with more confidence. And that means you’re choosing not to let fear – or anything else – stop you from crossing that bridge and fully embracing recovery.
Article source: www.addictions.com
