The current opioid epidemic has unfortunately bred a slew of unethical businesses posing as legitimate addiction treatment for those struggling with drugs or alcohol. It’s unimaginable that there are those who would take advantage of families in crisis, but it’s a sad reality.
The stigma of addiction and the fear of being judged will often have families wait until the last minute to reach out for help. They often feel terrified, alone and desperate to find help for their loved one. Some providers will strategically prey upon this fear to get a young person into their so-called treatment program. For many families, this predatory behavior will seem to be a gift, a kind and compassionate stranger who can answer all their prayers.
You are your child’s best advocate for finding the right type of treatment.Even well-meaning healthcare professionals or other individuals in your life may inadvertently point you in the wrong direction simply because addiction treatment is not their area of expertise.
Your family’s journey to recovery will be an ongoing learning process — and figuring out how to navigate the treatment system can be one of the biggest challenges. Do your research, ask for help, network with other parents, talk to addictions counselors and don’t be shy about asking any prospective providers a lot of questions.
It’s recommended that you start with a trusted addictions counselor and not with an online search. Use the following as a quick reference guide to help form the questions you’ll ask and quickly eliminate any questionable providers from your list:
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