Trying to decide if an addictions program is right for me

Addiction
1

I’ve been going back and forth about entering an addictions program. Part of me thinks I need the structure, especially because I do well for a while and then convince myself I can handle “just one” or manage things on my own. A few years ago, I attended an intake appointment and left before finishing because the questions felt too personal. I regretted it later, but that memory still makes me hesitant.

I’m not sure if I’m resisting because the program isn’t right for me, or because I’m scared of actually having to change. How did you know an addictions program was worth trying?

1 Like
2

Jerry, that memory of leaving the intake makes sense as a source of hesitation. Intake questions can feel exposing, especially when you’re not sure yet whether you trust the people asking them.

For me, the clue was noticing that “just one” kept turning into the same cycle, even after periods when I was doing well. I didn’t have to feel completely ready before trying support. You could ask the program what happens during intake, which questions are optional, and whether you can take a break. That might make it feel more like gathering information than making an irreversible commitment.

2 Likes
3

That distinction between gathering information and committing to the whole program seems really useful. I’ve put off appointments before because I treated the first conversation like I was signing away all my choices, when it could just be a chance to see how they handle my questions.

I’d probably ask whether the same counselor would follow up after intake, and what happens if I decide the program isn’t a good fit. Did having those options explained make it easier for you to be honest during the first meeting?

4

Sara, the way you separated gathering information from committing to the whole program really helped me think about it differently. I tend to treat one appointment like a final decision, which makes the questions feel much more intimidating than they need to be.

I like the idea of asking what’s optional and whether I can pause. Did you write those questions down before your first meeting, or were you able to bring them up naturally once you were there?