Is Going to a Drug Rehab Center Really Necessary?

My boyfriend is a drug addict. He’s addicted to Cocaine. Has been for about 5 years. We’ve been together for just over 3 years now. Because I fell for him so hard initially, I let the drug using slide, but for the last year and a half or so, it’s been causing quite a strain on our relationship. I fear what the cocaine is doing to him and how he’s getting worse, but I’m also getting sick of playing no 2 to his drug.

So anyway, with a lot of persuasion, I think my boyfriend has realised he needs to do something about his addiction. But he’s reluctant to go to a drug rehab center. Thinks he doesn’t need it. Do you think he’s right and is there anything I should be doing to convince him otherwise?

Answer

When it comes to treatment for drug addiction I always think going to a drug treatment center and getting the specialised treatment they can provide should be a priority. If you got cancer, wouldn’t you want the best treatment and care available?

Anyone who thinks they don’t need treatment for a cocaine addiction is in serious denial about the extent of their problem. It’s not something you simply overcome with a bit of willpower. So I would do anything you can to try and convince your boyfriend that he should at least try a proper treatment program. Ask him, what has he got to lose? And then make it clear everything he stands to potentially gain by getting clean – his life, self-respect, health ...

I’m not saying it is impossible to get clean if you don’t go through a proper drug rehab program, but why make it harder for yourself? It’s difficult enough as it is, without potentially tying one hand behind your back ...

But if your boyfriend still refuses, encourage him to at least speak to an Addictions Counselor and explore things like outpatient treatment programs and counselling - and also really encourage him to get to NA meetings because they are the likeliest avenue for helping him stay clean and create a new drug-free life.

The thing is though, irrespective of what you say or do, ultimately your boyfriend is going to do what he wants to do, and the only way he’ll be successful in overcoming his addiction is if he really wants it for himself and is prepared to work at it.

So best of luck and I really hope he gets clean.
Take care.

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