Excuses? Our Admissions Team Has Heard Them All

It’s that time of year when families gather. Pageants at spiritual centers and schools and an array of events herald holidays and the coming of the new year. The admissions specialists at Sanford Behavioral Health have probably heard every excuse for putting off the inevitable treatment for addiction, especially this time of year. We have assembled our “favorites” with responses from the admissions team.

“The excuse or reason we hear most by far is, ‘I just want to be with my kids.’ Understandably, a parent would not want to leave their children during the holidays. But our perspective has always been that taking time out to focus on your health will bring you closer to becoming the parent you want to be. The investment in time has a more positive impact on the family than being present for a specific day. If an individual does not take the step this year, they may miss out on ANOTHER holiday next year. “Jacob Passerman, Director of Admissions, Sanford Behavioral Health

Why do individuals or their family members call treatment centers to gather information but put off going to treatment until a future date? Because they know there is a problem but don’t want to impact their day-to-day activities, especially during the holidays or before a milestone event. Sadly, these events present the same triggers that have them calling us in the first place. There is no wrong time to get help for a substance use disorder (SUD). And with myriad options to get the help you need, there are no excuses, reasons, or plans that cannot be debunked.

“Throw us a curveball. Please give us your best reason for not being able to get the help you need. We will accommodate you or find a solution. Opening the conversation is the best way to get to the root of the objection and lay out the options.” Kelly Stone, Director of Community Outreach, Sanford

Avoiding Addiction Treatment With Excuses

1. I am expected to attend office parties, school pageants, weddings, ski trips, birthdays, and other events.

There are responsibilities, particularly when it comes to young children, that necessitate active participation from parents. There may also be non-refundable tickets or specific obligations from work. However, if you feel the need to reach out to a treatment center, your personal and professional relationships are already being impacted. Reflect on how much fulfillment you’re actually experiencing in your life and whether you want to add another challenging experience to your story. At Sanford, our outpatient therapy offers tailored recovery programs that fit seamlessly into your everyday life, whether in person or through telehealth options.

2. I am the family breadwinner; we can’t afford rehab. How can I go away for a long time?

At Sanford, our goal is to find the most suitable placement for each individual while ensuring the least restrictive level of care possible. We accept all major insurance providers, with the exception of patient policy deductibles, so it’s wise to take action before the year’s end. Additionally, there are options beyond residential treatment or lengthy absences from home. With both in-person and telehealth services, the Sanford Outpatient Center supports you in maintaining your daily routine while incorporating effective strategies for real-life recovery. Our admissions specialists are always available to discuss the various treatment possibilities and help you overcome any hesitations you might have.

3. I will wait till it’s safe and there is no chance of getting the flu or a COVID variation.

At Sanford Behavioral Health, the safety of our clients and staff has always been our number one priority. With the advent of COVID-19 and its variants, we have increased our stringent policies and response protocols to keep our facilities safe. We take pride in providing a safe environment while offering evidence-based treatment and recovery practices. Telehealth options are also available for those uncomfortable in a group setting.

4. Thanks for the information – I’ll think about it.

When considering help for a drug or alcohol issue, we often behave like Scarlett O’Hara, using the excuse of “I’ll deal with this tomorrow” to put off facing a difficult situation. However, delaying such important decisions only prolongs the struggle with addiction. Merely contemplating change doesn’t lead to actual change. As the saying goes, “Every journey begins with a single step,” and taking that first step is crucial.

5. With a rancorous divorce/separation happening, I don’t want anyone to know I am going away for treatment. I’m afraid my spouse will use it against me.

Let’s discuss your specific situation and find a solution together. Divorce can be a challenging and emotional experience that requires a clear mindset. At Sanford, we prioritize confidentiality. It is entirely up to you to decide who knows about your actions and whereabouts. Our treatment services at all levels comply with HIPAA regulations, meaning you have control over who can contact you or whom you can contact while at a Sanford facility. We can also make special arrangements for you to have conversations with your children, lawyers, or anyone involved in managing legal matters.

6. I am needed at work. I have to be available by computer and phone.

An SUD impacts production and decision-making even if you are high-functioning at work. A break from work to address substance use issues is always good for the bottom line and company morale. The holidays are often when work schedules are reduced, or a significant other can contribute more to childcare – an added reason to consider holiday timing as a positive. Talk to us about specific needs to contact work by computer and phone during residential treatment.

7. I don’t want to go to treatment now. It would seem too lonely and depressing.

Residential treatment doesn’t have to feel lonely or depressing, even during the festive season. At Sanford Behavioral Health, the schedule for December and January includes activities such as tree and cookie decorating, family brunches, holiday meals, and a trip to view the local light displays. The regional Alano Club also hosts festive, sober events. The staff and clinical therapists at Sanford understand the sensitivities clients may face during the holidays. Celebrating holidays in rehab—whether it’s Hanukkah or Memorial Day—provides a valuable opportunity to practice sober socializing in a safe environment.

8. I do not have anyone to take care of my dog/cat/parakeet

Now is the time to get creative. Your beloved pet will be better off with a healthy owner. If you plan a stay in residential treatment, pets are an issue! Please be sure to seek the help of a colleague, family member, or friend to watch your charge or explore Outpatient and Virtual Options. Pets are one of the positives of telehealth!

9. I am a single working parent (most often a woman); I do not have insurance or the resources to pay for formal treatment.

This is the most heartbreaking and frustrating on the list of excuses. Addiction does not discriminate, but single parents/women or those without resources or insurance are often the “forgotten demographic” when granting addiction treatment. Fortunately, one of the silver linings of the pandemic is a rise in virtual options – many of them free. Short-term disability might be an option. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) entitles eligible employees of covered employers to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons.

Please Don’t Put Off the Inevitable

In the end, we all have to face life’s difficulties. Several of our admissions specialists are in recovery from a SUD and have had to face their issues and make a change. They are empathetic and excellent listeners. One of the joys of recovery from addiction is the clear, clean light of a new day. There is no “perfect time” to get help for a substance use disorder. But now is as good a time as any. Pick up the phone, forget the excuses, and change your life for the better in the new year.