Nobody "wants" to go to treatment… just like nobody really wants to do the dishes, scrub the toilet, or scrape paint. As I have mentioned repeatedly throughout this book, recovery is supposed to be hard. Recovery is about changing a way of life. It is supposed to grind up against all of the things that have become natural and acceptable, and it therefore it should be uncomfortable. If it's not, you might be doing it wrong.
Let's say that you are right-handed. Over many years you have developed a strong mind/muscle connection with your right hand, and this makes you more effective at using that hand than your left hand. You rely on it to write, throw, brush your teeth, etc. You have found a way to make it work for you, and it just makes your life easier.
Read the rest of this chapter
Chapter 24 continues in the full book. Unlock all 38 chapters, audio narration, bookmarks, and notes.
Key ideas in this chapter
- Understanding why addicts don't 'want' treatment initially
- The futility of trying to convince someone to want recovery
- Moving from convincing to offering clear choices
- Creating healthier communication patterns
"Recovery is supposed to be hard. Recovery is about changing a way of life."