Congratulations! You have made that very tough decision and are ready to face your addiction straight on, once and for all. That means checking into your local rehab facility and making the commitment to your body and mind that is necessary for recovery. You’re excited and happy that it is finally happening, and your mind is probably racing with the pressure of it all. You’re ready to shout it out to the whole world!
While it is completely understandable that you want everyone and their mother to know about your decision, you may want to pull in the reins just a little bit. Who really needs to know about your addiction? Is it necessary to tell everyone about your addiction in order to recover? Take the time to step back and think about what your plans will look like to those around you.
Who Should Know About Your Addiction?
You obviously want the support of others in your life to keep fighting for your sobriety. Having loved ones on your side is always going to be a major component to recovery! Let’s take a look at the people you may choose to tell about your recovery process.
Spouse or significant other- Whether or not your spouse or significant other knows the severity of your addiction, they must understand your need for recovery. They should be there for you every step of the way. You should not have to hide the fact that you need rehab from the person you have pledged your life to. If you do, then it may be time to reevaluate that relationship.
Children – If your children are old enough to understand what you have been doing, then they are old enough to understand that you are headed for recovery. Your children may or may not be supportive of you leaving, depending on your relationship with them and their age, but you should tell them nonetheless. If your children are adults, they may also be a source of strength for you during this tough process.
Family members and friends- This is the area where you will have to make your own decision on who and who not to tell. If you have supportive family members that will help you along the way, such as siblings, then it is likely fine to tell them. Your friends may also be supportive and relieved that you are taking the leap to sobriety. Examine your relationships carefully in order to make the best decision possible.
Who Shouldn’t Know About Your Addiction?
While no one but you can make the definite choice on who to tell, let us offer a few guidelines you may want to consider.
Your boss- Whether or not you tell your boss or higher-up that you are getting help with your addiction is a highly personal choice. That is because your choice depends on many factors. If you are taking a leave of absence to attend rehab, your boss may need to know regardless. If you are working around an outpatient schedule, it will be up to you whether they should know or not.
Coworkers- This is another area in which you will need to consider your personal experiences. Can you trust your coworkers with this information? Will they tell people you don’t want to know? If you don’t care who knows about your addiction, you may want everyone who could support you to know. Again, choose your answer wisely.
How Will it Help Your Recovery?
Many patients believe that the more people who know they are addicted, the easier it will be to stick with the program. By telling others, you allow them to shoulder a little bit of the burden of addiction. This is one reason why many rehab facilities strongly suggest having a sponsor while you are in recovery. A sponsor is a person who understands what you are going through. They are generally a recovering addict themselves and will help you when you need to fight the urge to use. By having a sponsor in your life, along with loved ones who are aware of your struggle, you will always have someone to turn to when you are feeling as if you want to use again.
Are you ready to commit to a lifetime of sobriety? Are you tired of struggling with an addiction to drugs, alcohol, or both? Let us help! Give us a call today at 833-610-1174 and let our caring staff talk you through the steps you will need to take.