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Making the Most of Court-Mandated Substance Abuse Treatment

Getting caught with illegal drugs or alcohol can feel embarrassing. And going to rehab may be the last thing you want to do, especially for court-mandated substance abuse treatment. But it can be a life-changing experience.  Many people don’t feel ready to start rehab. If you’ve been stuck in a cycle of quitting and relapsing, you may feel hopeless and ashamed. Treatment can help you learn about the “why” behind your substance use and possibly save your life. Here’s why going to court-mandated substance abuse treatment can still be a good experience, even if you never planned to go.  

Coping with strong emotions in court-mandated therapy

It’s common to feel shame when facing the reality of addiction. But shame can be toxic to your recovery process, especially if you don’t know how to cope with it. Shame is the feeling that you are unworthy of love and care, which can stem from painful childhood experiences like abuse or growing up around substance misuse. These experiences can leave you feeling isolated and empty at times. If you turn to substances to cope with these feelings, shame could be at the core of your addiction. And knowing you’ve misused substances can trigger your low self-worth even more There’s a stigma surrounding addiction as well. Some see addiction as a moral failure or personal weakness, which is a misunderstanding of how addiction works. But people with addiction often feel like outcasts and have trouble getting help.   

An opportunity you didn’t see coming 

Nobody likes being forced to do things, especially with court-mandated therapy. But the requirement may help you complete your treatment program. Finishing treatment can also lead to better recovery You can find value in treatment, even if you didn’t plan on going. Once you connect with others and develop trust, your mindset about treatment may shift. 

You learn skills like these to manage your addiction and prevent relapse

  • Saying “no” when offered substances
  • Addressing negative or unhelpful thinking patterns
  • Planning for relapse triggers
  • Developing self-care habits

You may qualify for medication-assisted treatment (MAT) or medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). These treatments are backed by research, but many people don’t know about them or how effective they are. They make treatment for some substances safer and more effective.  

You’ll find help and compassion in rehab 

Going to treatment may not have been your idea, but you can still benefit from the experience. You’ll find caring professionals and peers who want to help. Addiction professionals often have personal stories of recovery. Because they manage their own addiction, they understand the ups and downs of recovery.  Peer support can also help you consider your treatment options. These people have been in your shoes, and they’ll meet you where you are in your recovery. Support groups help you remember that you’re not alone, and their support can get you engaged with treatment for a safer recovery. You may also have fewer cravings, feel less guilt and shame, and feel more capable  

An opportunity to get better court-mandated substance abuse treatment

Court-mandated substance abuse treatment may be the last place you want to spend time, but it’s an opportunity to begin recovery no matter why you start. You’ll find compassionate people who want to see you recover in rehab. Treatment can help, and we’re here to answer your questions. Call the P.A.T.H. facility today at 1-713-528-3709.

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