How To Get Someone Into Rehab

Have you observed a loved one’s drug or alcohol problem spiral out of control? Have they become withdrawn, more secretive, or visibly look different? It can be heartbreaking to see someone suffer when they might be unaware of it, or if they’re reluctant to admit they have a problem.  

You don’t want to offend them, but you also can’t watch them deal further damage to themselves, when you know the situation will only likely get worse. Sometimes, starting the conversation is the best thing you can do. 

Here at New Leaf, we know how daunting it can be to help someone into rehab, especially if the individual might be unwilling to go. However, our compassionate team are here to help. We can help you navigate this challenging time with expert advice; we’re only ever a phone call away. 

How to Get Someone Into Rehab: Key Steps to Follow 

When it comes to helping a loved one access the rehabilitative treatment they need, there are clear steps you can follow to make the process smooth as possible, and maximise the chances they will agree to admission.  

At New Leaf Recovery, we have helped countless individuals overcome a drug or alcohol addiction with expert treatment, and we regularly work with families to ensure the best outcomes. With our years of experience and time spent with families affected by addiction, these are the top steps we recommend for getting a loved one into rehab: 

Step 1: Make Sure You’re Clear on the Problem 

Before taking any action, it is first important to check if your loved one might definitely be in need of treatment. Carefully observe and make note of changes in your loved one. This may be changes to their mood, health, work, money, or relationships. Try and ascertain what substance it is that they have a problem with, it is just one? Or multiple? Do their behaviours also indicate they might be struggling with other issues, such as mental health difficulties? Are substances the cause of this, or are substances being used as the escape? Once you’re clear on the problem, you’ll be in a better position to judge whether they would benefit from rehabilitative treatment, and will be better prepared when having a conversation with them. 

Next, educate yourself on the most common signs and symptoms of substance misuse, and compare these to the behaviours your loved one is exhibiting. Check out our blog on the 10 most common signs that rehab is needed here. If there are clear similarities, then these can be taken as signs that your loved one is in need of rehabilitative treatment. Once you’re sure, then the next step is to take action. 

Step 2: Plan the Conversation 

Choosing the right moment to talk can make a significant difference. Pick a private, quiet time when your loved one is sober or as clear-headed as possible.  

Decide who should be involved in the conversation. Sometimes, one or two trusted family members are better than a larger group, as this can feel overwhelming. 

Be sure to do some research into addiction and how it is treated, so that you can speak confidently and calmly on the matter. This will help to convince the individual that you are right to be concerned, and that treatment might be needed.  

Next, prepare what you will say. Provide specific examples of how you think their substance use has been affecting them of late, and how it’s been affecting others around them.  

Explain that you are worried, and while showing some emotion can help to get your point across, it’s also important not to get too emotional, as this may provoke a reaction that can take the conversation off topic.  

Instead, remain calm and level-headed, and let them know that you only have their best interests at heart, and they don’t have to face what they’re going through alone. 

Step 3: Talk to Them About Rehab 

When addressing the issue, speak in a caring but direct way. Focus on concern: “I’m worried about your health and safety,” rather than using blame or insults to get your point across. Then, clearly communicate that you believe professional help or rehab is necessary. 

Listen carefully to their reactions, as this may give some indication as to how they feel about the problem. They might become solemn as they face up to the issue, realising how it’s affected those around them. At which point, showing compassion is important. They might show fear regarding the idea of rehab, which is when reassurance is necessary, letting them know they are supported. Or they might be evasive, trying to shrug off the conversation or play down the problem, at which point, it’s important to be persistent and firm in your message.  

They may also bring up objections to the idea, citing cost, time off work, childcare, or stigma as reasons why it’s not doable. In this case, be ready with practical suggestions to help reduce those barriers, which will make rehab seem more feasible. 

Emphasise that treatment is not a punishment, but a structured process in a nurturing environment that provides all the medical support, therapy, and long-term tools they need for lasting recovery. 

Step 4: Explore Options and Logistics 

Before initiating the conversation, complete some research into rehab centres in your area. It’s important to choose a highly recommended rehab centre that offers proven therapies for addiction rehabilitation. Here at New Leaf Recovery, we are one of the UK’s leading addiction rehabilitation clinics based in the West Midlands—easily accessible from across the country. We offer flexible rehab treatment programmes in a private and secluded residential setting. 

Our team of qualified addiction specialists provide evidence-based therapies and round-the-clock support to help individuals overcome addiction in a safe and structured environment. Many of our specialists have lived experience of addiction, and our glowing five star client reviews are a testament to the success of our programmes in helping individuals overcome a drug or alcohol addiction.  

Once you’ve decided on a rehab centre that’s right for you, call the clinic to understand their admission process, what addictions they treat, and what to do if your loved one agrees today or needs rapid entry. 

Be ready to help with logistical details, including insurance forms, arranging time off work, transportation to the facility, childcare, pet care, and packing if you decide upon a residential stay. 

Step 5: If They Agree to Go 

If your loved one agrees to go to rehab, then it’s important to act quickly, as motivation can fade fast. The longer the idea is left to the imagination, the longer the individual has to build up a negative image in their head about what it’s like to attend, whilst the anticipation may conjure up feelings of fear and anxiety.  

Therefore, try to move from the initial agreement to an intake appointment or admission date as soon as possible. 

Accompany them to the assessment if appropriate, and encourage honest answers about their substance use and mental health so that the right level of care can be provided. 

Ask the treatment team how you can best support their journey, whether through family sessions, or by setting healthy boundaries at home. Look for support groups or counselling for yourself as well to help you navigate the process, as admitting a loved one into rehab takes great courage and can take a great emotional toll! 

Step 6: If They Refuse Treatment 

In the eventuality your loved one refuses, or is reluctant to be admitted, it’s important to stay calm and avoid giving any ultimatums that you can’t enforce. Repeat conversations may be require before someone accepts. 

To help with this you can set clear, healthy boundaries. For example, you can stop providing money to the individual if you suspect that it will be spent on substances. Alternatively, you can refuse to cover up the consequences of their behaviour, while still continuing to express sympathy and leaving the door open to treatment. 

Consider a structured intervention with guidance from an addiction professional or counsellor if the situation is serious and refusal continues. 

Family Support at New Leaf Recovery  

At New Leaf Recovery, we know that admitting a loved one to rehab can feel overwhelming. That’s why we work closely with families to make the admission process as smooth and supportive as possible.  

Family support is an integral part of our rehab programmes here at New Leaf Recovery. We know that addiction affects everyone, and so we actively involve families throughout the recovery process. Family therapy sessions, ongoing advice and support, and facilitated visits are all key elements to this approach. 

This helps rebuild trust and create a stronger foundation for recovery. From the first phone call to arrival, our team provides the compassionate guidance and practical help needed to make that first step feel far less daunting for family members and their loved ones.  

How To Get Somone Into Rehab: Reach Out to New Leaf Recovery Today 

If you’re still unsure about whether your loved one might need rehab, or what steps you should take, reach out to New Leaf Recovery today for support.  

We understand how emotionally difficult this situation can be, and you don’t have to face it alone.  

Taking that first step is never easy—but with New Leaf by your side, you can feel confident that your loved one is getting the expert help and genuine care they deserve. With structured, evidence-based programmes, round-the-clock care, and a warm residential environment, we help individuals build lasting recovery while giving families greater peace of mind through our dedicated family support services. 

Based conveniently in the West Midlands, New Leaf Recovery helps clients across the length and breadth of the country gain access to the discreet, professional treatment they need to conquer addiction for good. 

Whether you’re arriving by car or public transport, accessing our clinic is straightforward and discreet, helping to reduce stress at an already difficult time. Our admissions team is always just a phone call away to answer questions, and guide you through the next steps. Reaching out is simple—and it could be the moment that changes everything for your loved one.