Watching your loved one struggling with addiction is heart-wrenching. You’ve tried talking to them, pointing out how their addiction has affected them and your family but it isn’t enough. It’s gotten so bad that you’re now contemplating having them involuntarily committed to rehab. Is this possible?
In the U.S., involuntary commitment to rehab is a possibility under certain circumstances and several states have involuntary commitment laws for addiction treatment. These laws vary by state and allow for the involuntary commitment of individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others due to substance abuse. This typically involves a legal process where concerned family members, law enforcement, or healthcare professionals petition the court for the person’s involuntary admission to rehab.
The Criteria for Involuntary Admission
It’s easier for parents to get their children admitted to rehab, even against their will. However, this changes if your loved one isn’t a minor. Specific criteria have to be met before a court grants such an order. While this varies with each state, you’ll typically have to go to court to prove several things.
Firstly, you must provide evidence of the individual’s severe substance abuse and their deteriorating physical and mental health as a result. You’ll also have to prove they pose a substantial danger to themselves or others. You may also need to show that due to addiction, the person has become incapacitated and is now unable to tend to their personal affairs or provide their basic needs.
Your loved one can contest the involuntary commitment if they wish.
Challenges of Involuntary Admission
Before seeking your loved one’s involuntary admission to rehab, consider the following challenges:
- They may resist treatment and refuse to engage or participate in the program.
- Involuntary commitment typically has a limited duration and upon completion, your loved one may choose to discontinue treatment.
- The involuntary nature of the commitment can strain your relationship.
Suitable Alternatives to Involuntary Admission
Given the challenges of involuntary admission, it may be helpful to explore better alternatives. These include:
- Conducting a professionally guided intervention. This involves having a carefully planned and structured conversation with your loved one about their addiction and emphasizing the impact on their life and relationships.
- Exploring outpatient treatment programs. These are typically less restrictive than other forms of addiction treatment allowing your loved one to receive professional support while maintaining their daily routines and responsibilities.
- Encouraging them to join a community-based support group. Groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can provide a non-coercive environment where your loved one can connect with others facing similar challenges.
Renewal and Healing in Recovery
As the premier addiction treatment facility in Kentucky, we at the Robert Alexander Center for Recovery know first-hand how complex and challenging addiction can be. That is why we offer a range of evidence-based, comprehensive treatment programs including residential, intensive outpatient, and outpatient treatment. We also offer a family therapy program to help families that have been devastated by addiction. We pride ourselves on providing outstanding care from detox to aftercare to transform our clients’ lives. Contact us today to see how we can help you.
