A Guide from Revive Recovery Centers

Watching someone you care about struggle with drug or alcohol addiction is heartbreaking. You see their potential. You remember who they were before substances took hold. And while you know rehab could help, bringing it up feels overwhelming. What if they get angry? What if they shut you out?

At Revive Recovery Centers, we know how delicate this moment is. Starting the conversation about going to rehab can be one of the most terrifying yet loving and courageous things you do. Here’s how to approach it with empathy, clarity, and purpose.

Choose the Right Time and Place

Timing matters. Don’t bring up rehab during an argument or when your loved one is under the influence, if possible. Wait for a calm, private moment where you can talk without distractions. This conversation requires emotional safety for both of you. 

Come From a Place of Love, Not Judgment

Focus on care and concern, not blame, when having a conversation regarding substance abuse and rehab. It is important that your loved one understands that you are coming from a good place with this type of conversation. Threats and accusations will likely put a hard stop to the conversation or lead to an argument, which you want to avoid. Avoid statements like:

• “If you don’t go, then I’ll be forced to _____.”
• “You need to get help.”
• “You’re ruining your life and everyone’s around you.”
• “You’re being selfish by abusing substances.”
• “No one likes you when you’re like this.”
  

Instead, use “I” statements:

• “I’m really worried about you.”
• “I miss the person you used to be before this took over.”
• “I love you, and I want to see you healthy and happy again.”
• “I don’t want this to be the thing that defines your life, you’re meant for so much more.”
• “I want to support you through your recovery.”
• “I know you can succeed in recovery.”
  

Your goal is not to force them into change, but to help them want it.

Do Your Homework

Before the conversation, learn about treatment options. Know what rehab involves, how insurance works, and what Revive Recovery offers compared to other treatment centers in Mesa and surrounding regions. Having clear, practical answers can help ease their fears. It also shows you’re serious and prepared to support them.

Helpful points to share:

• Detox and treatment are medically supervised and tailored to each individual.
• Programs can address both addiction and underlying mental health struggles.
• Inpatient and outpatient programs are available depending on your preference and responsibilities. 
• Taking the first step is often the hardest part but the support you’ll find in treatment is unmatched. You aren’t alone in this. 
  

Be Ready for Resistance

Addiction is complex, and denial is common. We rarely see an immediate “yes” to making the decision to go to rehab. The addiction often takes over and thinks of every possible excuse to avoid getting the help you need and deserve. Your loved one may:

• Downplay their substance use.
• Get defensive.
• Say they don’t need or want help.

That doesn’t mean your words didn’t matter. Sometimes it takes time for a message to land. Stay calm, plant the seed, and let them know your support is steady, no matter how long it takes.

Offer Solutions, Not Ultimatums

As we mentioned earlier in this article, ultimatums are never the way to go when talking to a loved one regarding treatment. Rather than saying, “If you don’t go to rehab, I’m done,” try:

• “I’ve found a place that can help you,  will you take a look with me?”
• “You don’t have to do this alone. I’ll be with you every step of the way.”
• “Would you be open to talking to someone at Revive Recovery just to learn more?”

If boundaries are necessary for your own wellbeing, express them with love, not punishment.

Consider a Professional Intervention

If past conversations haven’t worked, or the situation is urgent, a licensed interventionist may be the best path. These professionals can guide the entire family through a structured, respectful process that increases the chances of your loved one accepting help.

You’re Not Alone And Neither Are They

Talking to someone about going to rehab is one of the hardest conversations you’ll ever have but it can also be the turning point. At Revive Recovery Centers, we’re here to support both you and your loved one through every step of the journey.

Need help starting the conversation?

Call us for a confidential consultation. We’ll help you understand your options and walk with you as you support the person you care about most.