One of the most troubling things related to substance abuse in America is that very few people ever seek the help they need to end their addiction to drugs, alcohol, or both. In fact, a study published by the National Institutes of Health found that only about 10 percent of the more than 23 million men and women in America who have a substance abuse problem ever seek treatment. As far as why this is the case, the reasons are quite varied. While some individuals enjoy the euphoric high that comes with abusing their drug of choice, others cite an inability to pay for the addiction recovery programs needed to get their life back on track. Also, some individuals are deeply concerned about the withdrawal symptoms that come with abruptly quitting drugs or alcohol. Lastly, some have a substance abuse problem and don’t even realize that they have one.
Statistics Shed Light on What Is Keeping So Many Individuals From Seeking Addiction Recovery Treatments
To further understand why some individuals are averse to seeking the help needed to overcome addiction, we need only take a look at some of the data published by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). For reference, NSDUH is an organization that provides up-to-date statistical information concerning tobacco, alcohol, and drug use in America.
The 2014 survey conducted and published by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health listed the following as the top excuses given by respondents when asked why they chose not to seek treatment to overcome their drug or alcohol addiction:
- Had their drug or alcohol addiction under control (8 percent)
- Had no interest in quitting (29 percent)
- Concerned about how others would perceive them if they were to seek help (18 percent)
- Believed seeking help would interfere with their career (17 percent)
- Did not know where to go for help (14 percent)
- Unable to pay for treatment programs due to no income, low-income, or lack of insurance (39 percent)
The Truth About Drug and Alcohol Rehab Facilities in America
For those who are not aware, the United States is home to more than 14,000 drug and alcohol rehab facilities, meaning that, for those who are ready to put substance abuse behind them, there is something for just about everyone. For example, there are many state-funded and private rehab facilities that accept government-funded and private health insurance.
Many are also entirely free, and if not, they are willing to accept payments on a sliding fee scale. Plus, many of these same facilities have received accreditation from The Joint Commission, CARF, NCQA, and similar national treatment accreditation organizations. In short, this means that individuals who turn to these facilities for help will receive the best care possible. Finally, some rehabs are also administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, which makes them a go-to for veterans needing help overcoming a substance abuse problem.
What Happens While Individuals are Going Through Rehab?
For those who are employed and are concerned about not having a job after completing rehab, you should know that the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows eligible employees to take unpaid leave from their job while being treated for a substance abuse problem. And they can do so without the threat of being terminated. Something else to note, many rehab facilities will help individuals file the paperwork necessary to become eligible for FMLA.
Another benefit of seeking help with a licensed rehab facility is that they have therapists that can help individuals overcome the psychological aspects of overcoming addiction. And this includes addressing concerns that they may have about being perceived negatively by others while they are going through rehab. For those worried about the withdrawal symptoms associated with detox, you needn’t be. Nearly all of the more rehab facilities in the United States offer some form of medication-assisted detox, which includes the use of Suboxone, Methadone, Naltrexone, and similar drugs, that can lessen the severity of withdrawal symptoms that stem from suddenly quitting drugs or alcohol.
Bottom Line
In summation, if you’re one of the many people in America with a substance abuse problem and have not yet sought treatment, you shouldn’t go another without doing so. After all, there are quite a few online resources that you can use to find a facility in your area that is right for you. Also, our friendly representatives are available at 833-820-2922 if you would prefer to speak with someone over the phone instead.