People often feel conflicted about entering treatment for addiction. Although they may know that addiction is making them miserable and they need to do something about it, they may also feel apprehensive about the challenges ahead. Here are some of the common fears people have about entering addiction treatment.
Detox
Perhaps the most concrete and rational fear is fear of detox. Detox is the first step for everyone and depending on your situation, it might be relatively mild, consisting of irritability, headaches, and insomnia, or it might be really intense like a bad flu. It’s understandable that someone would be afraid of withdrawal. However, detoxing under medical supervision is the best-case scenario. There is minimal risk that your symptoms will become dangerous and you may be able to get some medications to lessen the severity of your symptoms.
Failure
When you agree to enter treatment, it can be a huge relief for your friends and family. They may suddenly feel hopeful that better days are ahead. However, you may feel like your chances of success are slim at best and that treatment is only one more opportunity to disappoint yourself and the people who care about you. It’s perfectly normal to have doubts about your ability to stay sober. There are no guarantees for anyone and all you can do is take the first step. Relapse is common, but many people do have a successful recovery even after several failed attempts.
Success
It’s strange to say, but success can feel even more threatening than failure. While addiction may be miserable, at least it’s familiar. Success in recovery means facing new challenges and new responsibilities. Your old excuses fall away and people expect more of you. It can seem daunting. However, you won’t have to take on anything you’re not ready for. You may see people with a long time sober and think you couldn’t do what they do, but it may have taken them years to get to that point. If you focus on improvement rather than some vague notion of success, you will continue to make progress.
Vulnerability
Nearly everyone who has struggled with addiction has been hurt in some way. It can be hard to share this, or even acknowledge it, but coming to terms with those buried feelings is a necessary part of treatment. Many people find this terrifying. It can be challenging to face these feelings, but no one will force you to do or share anything before you’re ready. When you’re finally able to process those feelings, you’ll feel much better.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction or mental illness, we can help. Recovery Ways is a premier drug and alcohol addiction treatment facility located in Salt Lake City, Utah. We have the resources to effectively treat a dual diagnosis. Our mission is to provide the most cost-effective, accessible substance abuse treatment to as many people as possible. Request information online or call us today at 1-888-986-7848.
