How Can You Prepare Yourself for Entering Rehab?

Many people who struggle with addiction avoid entering rehab out of fear. There are many unknowns when entering a treatment facility or program. Luckily, there are steps you can take to prepare yourself for entering rehab. Additionally, understanding what you might expect from a treatment program will prepare you and ease anxiety about admission.

In many circumstances, individuals are unaware of their struggle with addiction. These people benefit from intervention, which can be a crucial step toward entering rehabilitation or helping someone seek treatment. If you are afraid of entering rehab because of the unknown, remember that this fear is normal. Think about where you are now in your struggle—don't you hope for another way? NorthStar Transitions can help. 

Recognizing the Signs of Addiction Within Yourself 

There are many signs and symptoms to look out for when struggling with addiction or substance use disorder (SUD). SUD is a broad umbrella term that encompasses several addictions, including alcohol, prescription opioids, illicit drugs, or any number of other addictive substances.

According to a National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 19.7 million individuals in the United States struggled with SUD in 2017. Yet, six years later, there is still a growing concern, not only over the development of SUD but also over the number of overdose deaths throughout the country. 

The first line of defense in preventing SUD and overdose deaths is understanding and recognizing the signs of SUD. Symptoms vary depending on the substance and the individual, but in general, they can include: 

• Unusual sleeping patterns 
• Changes in appetite leading to unwanted weight loss or gain 
• Lack of attention to physical appearance or hygiene 
• Slurred speech 
• Problems in personal relationships 
• Erratic behavior, such as fighting or driving under the influence 
• Inability to fulfill obligations at home or work 
• Increased tolerance 
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop substance use 
• The development of other chronic conditions, physical or psychological 

These are just a few out of many possible signs that indicate a struggle with SUD. Individuals may be able to recognize these clearly in someone they love, but it is more challenging to identify them within oneself. That is why interventions are sometimes necessary. 

Helping Loved Ones Enter Rehab Through Intervention 

Simply put, an intervention is when the loved ones of an individual struggling with addiction come together to help them seek treatment. The primary goal of an intervention is to get this person treatment, offer assistance and resources, and outline the consequences if the individual decides against entering rehab. 

During an intervention, family, friends, and other loved ones also have the opportunity to illustrate how the person's struggle with addiction has impacted them personally. However, these loved ones mustn't misconstrue this opportunity as a time to lay blame or guilt. Instead, they must focus on expressing concerns. It may take some tough love to help a person enter rehab, but it can be done with empathy and compassion. 

Things to Consider Before Entering Rehab 

There are a few things individuals may want to consider before entering rehab. First, each person's journey will be different from others. That means the treatments and programs one tries may look different from their peers because their treatment plan will be tailored to them. 

Aside from what the treatment program looks like, leaving one's family or residing in a facility for a time can be anxiety-inducing. That is normal, but these anxieties shouldn't be allowed to change the individual's mind or cause them to make decisions that may make entering rehab harder. Here are some examples of things to consider before entering rehab: 

• Avoid binge drinking or substance use to cope with anxiety about entering rehab—it may make detox harder
• Prioritize health when entering rehab, which individuals can do by drinking enough water, getting enough sleep, and eating nutritious foods
• Before entering rehab, spend as much time with friends and family as possible, as this connection can motivate individuals to get through treatment.
• Remove any substances or paraphernalia from the home. If this is too difficult for the individual, they should ask a trusted friend or family member for help. Having a substance-free environment will be paramount to the individual's post-treatment success.
• Some facilities may be able to offer assistance with logistics like finding childcare, notifying one's employer, and working with insurance. This process may include searching for specific treatment for professionals and reviewing insurance beforehand.

Treatment Options 

Understanding the various treatment options available is another way to get more comfortable entering rehab. For example, a care plan may include detox services, a day treatment program, or a more intensive inpatient stay. No matter what, the best treatment is the best approach for the individual and their unique needs. Addiction does not have to dictate another moment of anyone's life. Treatment is available today.

The process of entering rehab for addiction can be scary and anxiety-inducing. But it is also a very courageous decision. Despite the anxieties you may experience before entering rehab, there are many steps you can take to grow more comfortable. The caring and knowledgeable staff at NorthStar Transitions is here to help you understand what to expect and assuage any anxieties you may have about the treatment and recovery process. Our programs include various options to ensure you get the best treatment that is most comfortable and effective for you. If you are nervous about entering rehab, call NorthStar Transitions at (303) 558-6400. We hope to ease your worries. 

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