For many alcoholics, rehab provides the only real opportunity they will ever have to get and stay sober. While most alcoholics struggle with the decision to actually check themselves into a rehabilitation clinic, once they are there, many find themselves quite relieved they are finally getting the assistance they need to quit drinking.
Making the choice to go to rehab is an emotional and frightening decision for many. For rehab to really work and the alcoholic to be successful, he or she must be ready to go. It is hard, if not impossible, to force someone to enter rehab. The alcoholic must have the desire to enter.
While it is difficult to force someone into rehab, it is very easy to encourage them to go. Most alcoholics aren’t going to cheerfully check themselves into a place where they will be unable to drink. They are alcoholics because they are addicted to alcohol and the prospect of not being able to drink is frightening. Therefore, it is of utmost important to encourage alcoholics to get help and provide as much support as possible once they decide to go to rehab, while they are there and after they leave.
If you know someone who is an alcoholic, let them know that you support them and will provide any assistance they need. For example, if they are thinking about going to rehab, offer to drive them there. You could also offer to look into different facilities for them. Be careful not to push too hard or you may turn them away from you, but be gently persistent.
Let your friend or loved one know you’ll be there to support him when he finishes rehab. Don’t just tell him you’ll support him, tell him exactly what you are going to do when he gets home. For example, you may tell him you’ll be there to drive him home or you will cook him his favorite meal his first night out. This support will offer comfort and stability and help him through his days at rehab.