Millions of people in the United States live with an addiction to prescription or illicit drugs. Untreated substance use disorder (SUD) can cause significant damage to a person’s life. It can harm their relationships, physical health, and emotional well-being.
Addiction does not only affect those living with it. The impacts of substance abuse affect people who love the addicted person and their entire communities.
When someone you love struggles with drug abuse or addiction, it can be very painful. You may want to help your loved one go to rehab–but how? Denial and the effects of addiction can prevent people from seeing the severity of their problem.
Some people may wonder if it is possible to force someone into rehab against their will in North Carolina. This article will explore involuntary commitment in North Carolina. You will learn:
- The laws about involuntary commitment
- How to convince someone to go to rehab
- Where to find treatment and support
An addiction can quickly become life-threatening. Don’t wait for more time to go by before seeking help. Contact the Ascend Recovery Center team now to learn about our comprehensive treatment programs or to schedule an intake assessment.
Substance Abuse and Addiction: Recognizing the Signs
The first step in getting help for addiction is to recognize a problem. Drug and alcohol abuse can cause significant changes in the way a person looks, thinks, and acts. Here are some common signs of substance abuse and addiction:
- Mood swings
- Personality changes
- Aggression
- Irritability
- Low energy or fatigue
- A new group of friends
- Dishonest or illegal behavior related to drug use
- Using drugs or drinking more often
- Needing to use larger doses of a substance to get the desired effects
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using drugs or alcohol
- Significant weight changes in a short period
- Sleeping too much or not sleeping enough
- Constricted (small) pupils
- Glazed or bloodshot eyes
- Neglected hygiene
- Neglecting work, relationships, hobbies, and responsibilities
Some risk factors increase the risk of developing substance use disorder (SUD). However, anyone can develop an addiction to drugs and alcohol. If you recognize the signs of addiction, substance abuse treatment may be necessary.
Can You Force Someone to Go to Rehab in North Carolina?
Some states have involuntary commitment laws to help people with addiction. These laws allow friends or family members to file a petition for involuntary commitment. Then, the petitioners engage in court hearings to have someone involuntarily committed for addiction treatment.
In states where commitment is legal, people with addiction may receive treatment, even if they do not want it. When an addicted person meets the criteria for involuntary commitment, a judge may determine they need treatment. Then, law enforcement officers can detain the addicted person and bring them to a treatment facility against their will.
North Carolina has involuntary commitment laws for mental health treatment and substance abuse treatment. Individuals must have proof that someone is abusing drugs or alcohol in a way that impairs their ability to care for themselves or make sound decisions.
Law enforcement officers and judges cannot force people into rehab in North Carolina. However, you can take steps to convince someone to seek treatment.
How to Convince Someone to Go to Rehab
It can be devastating to watch a loved one struggle with addiction and not know how to help. However, there are steps you can take to help you convince someone to go to rehab.
1. Learn about addiction and recovery
Educate yourself about addiction as a disease and what the recovery process is like. Locate local treatment centers offering comprehensive rehab programs. Learn about what goes into an effective treatment plan and read accounts from people in recovery. The more you know about addiction, the better you can support your loved one.
2. Stage an intervention
An intervention is a carefully planned conversation between an addicted person and their loved ones. The goal of an intervention is to express concern and support while encouraging the person to seek treatment immediately.
Contact the Ascend Recovery Center specialists to learn about staging an effective intervention. Hiring a professional interventionist is crucial to having the best possible results. Your interventionist can support you and your group before, during, and after the intervention.
3. Act quickly
An addiction can quickly spiral into a life-threatening emergency. Don’t wait for your loved one to hit rock bottom or face life-altering consequences to step in and help.
Take action as soon as you recognize your loved one’s addiction. Find the support, information, and guidance you need by contacting the specialists at Ascend Recovery now.
Find Help Now
Addiction is a complex condition that requires comprehensive, compassionate treatment. If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. The effective, holistic treatment you need is available at Ascend Recovery.
Contact our intake specialists to learn more about our North Carolina substance abuse treatment programs. We are happy to answer questions, verify your insurance, or help you schedule an intake evaluation. Take the first step toward a healthier future by contacting us today.
References:
- University of North Carolina (UNC): Criteria for Involuntary Commitment in North Carolina
