What if the drug addict or alcoholic doesn’t feel they have a problem?
Denial is part of the recovery process and should be expected. Addicts and alcoholics are rarely honest when it comes to describing their drug or alcohol use, especially with loved ones. Regardless of the person’s initial motivation, lack of willingness or lack of honesty, if they will go to treatment, take them. One of the primary responsibilities of the treatment team is to deal with a patient’s resistance. There are not very many people who like change. If your loved one calls you from treatment and wants to leave, do not take any type of action before speaking with the primary therapist at the treatment center. Chances are they might just want to use drugs or alcohol again. For those who are in complete denial and will not enter a drug and alcohol treatment program, you should consider outside support with an interventionist.
