Change is hard. Admitting fault is also hard. Entering treatment involves both. Men can be hesitant to seek help and follow through with treatment for a variety of reasons. These can involve personality traits, obligations, or occasionally unrealistic interpretations of the situation.
Choosing to get help is a commitment and results in huge changes. Despite knowing the benefits and understanding the healing that treatment will provide, men often remain resistant to taking the steps to seek and follow through with treatment. A few common reasons are discussed below.
#1. Denial
It can be common for men to deny they have a problem. Admitting you need help is difficult in any situation. Coming to terms with the fact that you have lost control of your life and are unable to fix the problem alone is often a tough reality to digest.
Generally speaking, men strive to be in control. They aim to be protectors and providers for those they love. This can make it very complicated for them to confess that there is a problem beyond their means of solving. People with this sense of responsibility and purpose typically do not want to admit they are in need of help.
#2. Pride
Pride can be a huge barrier to many things. It can prevent us from apologizing, keep us from moving forward after defeat, and even delay important decision-making. Pride is a normal human emotion that we all experience. While common, pride can be tricky as it relates to both oneself and others. It can refer to feelings of embarrassment or guilt, or it can refer to feeling proud about an accomplishment.
In this case, pride is referenced in a more negative connotation and serves as a barrier to seeking help. When it comes to seeking treatment for substance abuse, it is important to put your pride aside. Prioritizing yourself and your needs is critical to your future.
#3. Shame or Guilt
Shame and guilt are very common feelings for those entering treatment. You have just come to terms with the severity of your problem and may have accepted your complete loss of control over the situation. You may feel embarrassed by your actions or even angry with yourself for allowing things to get this far.
It can be common to feel ashamed or even experience guilt when it comes to admitting you need help. Perhaps this is due to the various stigmas associated with drug or alcohol addiction. As explained by Owen Flanagan, “Addiction is a person-level phenomenon that involves twin normative failures. A failure of normal rational effective agency or self-control with respect to the substance; and shame at both this failure, and the failure to live up to the standards for a good life that the addict himself acknowledges and aspires to.”
#4. Job or Responsibilities
As a man, the thought of walking away from your job or other responsibilities long enough to go through treatment may sound awful. Maybe you are the provider for your family. Perhaps you have worked your way up to a position at work that you are very proud of, and you know a leave of absence could jeopardize everything.
The truth is that substance abuse can really impact your performance at work and your involvement at home. Although you may be holding it together at the moment, chances are, this is not sustainable. While it may seem impossible or less than ideal to temporarily step away, the long-term benefits will be worth it.
#5. Being Unsure of Where to Start
Many may use the excuse of not knowing where to start when it comes to seeking treatment. If you don’t have any friends or family who have struggled with substance abuse, you may not be aware of any facilities off the top of your head.
It is important to find the right fit, but even more important to take the first step by researching your options and making the call. If you have insurance, starting by searching for facilities that accept yours is a great place to begin.
Searching for programs to fit your specific needs can ensure you have the best treatment experience possible. See that the facility you are considering implements principles and therapies you are comfortable with.
Treatment for Men
Because men often struggle with similar barriers to seeking treatment, they may also encounter some common obstacles throughout the experience as well. By choosing a treatment center specifically for men, you can be assured that your feelings, preferences, and interests will be taken into consideration and catered to.
Choosing a gender-specific treatment center has many benefits. There are generally fewer distractions, as well as staff who have gone through similar situations themselves, making it easier for them to relate and empathize with you. Furthermore, there tends to be excellent alumni and sponsor support in these facilities. What is most important, however, is making the decision to seek treatment and begin your journey to recovery.
Choosing to get help can be difficult for everyone. Men, in particular, can be hesitant to seek treatment for many different reasons. They may feel ashamed or embarrassed, think they are too busy, or may even feel as though their problem is not significant enough to seek treatment. Overcoming these obstacles can be tough. If you are struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, time is of the essence. Do not waste any more of your life battling substance abuse. Renaissance Ranch is a male-only treatment facility that uses a faith-based approach to recovery. We begin with a thorough assessment at intake to determine your level of care and develop a treatment plan based on your specific needs. Let us help you regain control of your life. If you or someone you love could benefit from our program, call Renaissance Ranch today at (801) 308-8898.