Substance abuse and addiction is reaching crisis levels in many countries, regardless of economic and cultural differences. In Australia, alcohol and drug abuse remains a highly concerning public health issue. While the government and numerous private facilities offer various treatment options, some who desperately need it don’t seek it. Here are some of the oft cited reasons why substance abuse sufferers don’t get the treatment they desperately need:

Don’t Won’t to Stop Yet

Perhaps the most prevailing reasons why treatment is not received, or isn’t effective, is because the patient is not ready to stop feeding the addiction. Wanting to continue to drink, smoke, or use drugs can be difficult to overcome. Intention is absolutely crucial for any treatment program to start working. No one can force an addict to quit.

Fear of Others Finding Out

Some substance abuse sufferers do recognise that they have a serious health problem and want to quit, but stop short of getting treatment because of fear of public reprisal. The problem is egregious if the addiction patient is well-known in some way, such as a public figure, a politician, or a community leader. The patients may fear not just social problems, but also employment problems as well. In this case, going to an alcohol or drug rehabilitation centre might be the best option, as most rehab facilities offer discreet treatment services.

Fear of Getting Fired

Some addiction patients also fear employers firing them for substance abuse. It’s understandable that some employers, such as schools or hospitals, might not want to employ personnel who are battling addiction problems. But company or brand reputation may also come into play. Fearing negative opinions from colleagues, friends, or neighbours, is an overwhelming reason why patients don’t seek treatment on time.

Logistical Inconveniences

Some patients may have work or life responsibilities that may get in the way of seeking treatment, and thus may shun treatment altogether. For example, a night shift worker may not be able to find group therapy sessions during daytime. Others may have difficulty with transportation, especially if the patient lives in a rural area. Family responsibilities like needing to look after kids may prevent patients from attending therapy sessions or meeting with counsellors. If the substance abuser sees physically getting treatment as cumbersome, they will never seek treatment in the first place.

Not Liking the Type of Treatment

Not everyone benefits equally from the common types of treatment available for addiction, such as group therapy and counselling. Some may overlook treatment altogether if one or two options don’t work out for them. While group therapy is the prevalent form of treatment for addiction, there are other options patients can try. Being aware of all these options will increase the likelihood of such patients seeking treatment.

Negative Preconceived Notions Regarding Physiatrist Treatment

Not everyone looks at counselling in a positive manner. Some see counselling as an ineffective or even deceptive form of medical practise. If the substance abuse patient doesn’t have a positive opinion regarding psychological care, they may not seek counselling service of any kind for addiction treatment.

Some addiction sufferers may also have money issues on the mind. They may believe certain care programs are expensive. Most of the reasons why addiction patients don’t get treatment are hinge on social negativity or misconceptions. Addressing these issues directly will most likely cause more people to get help.