Why Most Addicts Hit Rock Bottom Before Seeking Treatment

For many battling an addiction, getting to treatment is often one of the most difficult parts of their recovery journey. It’s one thing to recognize your problem, but it’s another thing to admit you have a problem and then actively seek a life change.

That’s before we even talk about the idea of getting to recovery and going through the multitude of steps that encompass the recovery journey.

Each step of the journey is a journey in itself and for many, they tend to struggle before even getting to treatment.

But why is it that most addicts hit rock bottom before they arrive at treatment? Is there a specific point where things start to tumble in a downward spiral? 

Today, we’re going to look at why so many struggle with their addiction and why many truly hit rock bottom before heading to treatment.

What Obstacles Prevent People from Getting Help?

Denial is common in every facet of life. Whenever someone is confronted with a hard truth about themselves, it’s our human nature to refute those claims, change the topic, and blame everything but ourselves. 

Some people come to a realization that they’ve been stumbling while others may take more time.

Besides denial, what other obstacles keep people from getting help?

Underreporting

Along the same paths as denial, many users underreport or underestimate the substance they are abusing. Friends or family members may bring up concerns but people may respond “Oh, it’s not that much” or “It’s only when I’m feeling stressed/anxious/under pressure.”

Underreporting is a big reason many don’t seek treatment. Treatment and addiction centers are only for those who have a serious problem, and their problem isn’t as serious.

The Cost

Nothing in life is free. Recovery centers cost money. Many people avoid treatment because they’re simply anxious that they won’t be able to afford it. Or, their family may not be able to afford it. 

What many people don’t realize, however, is there are plenty of insurance programs that help cover the cost of recovery. There are also state funding options to be explored through State Department of Health and Welfare.

This is not the blanket cause, however, and one should always double-check with their insurance provider just in case. 

Embarrassment

For many, admitting you went to a recovery center isn’t exactly a badge of honor you carry around. Many people are simply embarrassed about what others will think of them if they do check themselves into rehab.

Even though we’re told not to care what others think from an early age, the truth is it continues to affect everyone, even adults who appear to have it all together.

Embarrassment and shame often prevent people from getting the help they need.

Fear of Missing Out

Fear of missing out, or FOMO, often refers to people missing out on important life events or social gatherings. 

In this case, however, it can mean something more.

Relationships can be put under strain, friendships may be lost, or one might simply miss out on big life events. A nephew being born, your best friend’s wedding, or even your favorite sports team finally making it to the big game.

That fear often keeps people from missing out.

Rock Bottom

Many times, it can be a combination of all these aspects. Someone may feel shame but also be afraid of the potential cost. Those doubts and worries hang around and eventually manifest into something bigger.

Help isn’t sought out and after a while, rock bottom is hit. 

It can be difficult for even the most diligent of people to recognize their own issues and be willing to make a permanent change.

We Can Help at The Walker Center

Here at The Walker Center, we know that seeking help isn’t always the easiest thing. However, we also understand that one of the biggest fears about seeking help is that you’ll be alone.

Part of our program is ensuring that you’re never alone. Whether that’s with others in the program, our exercise groups, or various activities, we strive to make sure you feel comfortable and ready to take the next step and overcome this big obstacle.

Reach out to us today to learn more or just if you want to talk to someone. We look forward to hearing from you.

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