I’m trying CMHA addiction services for the first time, and I’m not sure what to expect. Making the call was harder than I thought, even though I knew I needed some help. I kept worrying that I’d be judged or told I wasn’t struggling enough, but the person I spoke with was pretty calm and just asked what’s been going on.
I had a support meeting years ago where I felt rushed, so I’m hoping this is a bit different. I’m nervous about talking honestly, especially about the times I’ve relapsed and then avoided reaching out. Has anyone used CMHA addiction services and found anything that helped them feel more comfortable at the start?
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The fact that they stayed calm and just asked what’s been going on sounds like a decent first sign. I’d probably still be nervous too, especially after feeling rushed before.
When I’ve had to talk about relapse, it helped to write down a few points beforehand instead of trying to explain everything perfectly on the spot. You don’t have to give the whole history in one meeting either. Saying that you’re nervous about being judged is probably useful for them to know.
And avoiding help after a relapse doesn’t mean you’ve failed at getting support. That’s part of what they’re there to help with. Hopefully this service gives you more time and doesn’t make you feel like you have to prove how bad things are.
Robert, that calm response sounds like a good start. I’ve found it helps to say right away that I’m nervous and have had a bad experience being rushed before. It gives them a chance to slow things down instead of guessing what I need.
You don’t have to make the relapse history sound neat or explain every detail in the first meeting. I’d probably write down a few things beforehand, including what I want help with now and what made me avoid calling. Even if you only get some of it out, that’s still an honest start.