Hats off to you for making a life changing choice. You have made the decision to go to treatment. You may have a lot of questions and even have some fears about the unknown. All of this is normal and to be expected when you make the decision to recover.

Even though this is a life changing decision, you may now be wondering how in the world to tell your family. To be fair, you’re family may or may not know you have been struggling with sobriety, but they will be overwhelmed with joy when you tell them you are committed to getting the help you need.

Chances are that your family is well aware of your addiction. Even if they are not, if you have a supportive family, they will be overjoyed that you are going to treatment. However, it is important to talk to your family about this step in your life. Even if they do not know about your alcohol or drug use, you may consider being open and honest with them.

Recovery is not a solo trip. You will absolutely need the support of your family and loved ones. Recovery does not end with treatment. In fact, going to treatment is just the beginning. You can start to talk about treatment by following these steps:

1. Tell them why you are going to treatment.
2. Tell them about your long term goals.
3. Tell them what kind of support you need from them.
4. Offer your family to visit you while you are in treatment.
5. Offer your family to accompany you to family therapy sessions.

You are going to need support when you get out of treatment. Maybe you need help cleaning out your apartment to get rid of reminders of drugs and alcohol. You may need to ask that your family limit their alcohol use when you get out of treatment. Whatever you need, try to feel comfortable to share this with your loved ones.

A lot of treatment and after-care programs offer family visitations and family therapy sessions. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to your family alone, invite them to a counseling session or to visit you while you are in treatment. Visitations and family therapy will help the healing process. There may be feeling of anger or hurt between you and your family, and treatment is a great way to vent in a safe environment. Don’t try to go at this recovery thing alone. Let your family know what you need, tell them why you decided to go to treatment, and invite them to be a part of it. Involving your family in your treatment will make for a successful new beginning.

Talking to your family about wanting to get sober may seem overwhelming. At The Kimberly Center, we want to help you feel at ease in your treatment process. Deciding to go to treatment is a big enough decision, let us help you and your family heal. Call us now at 855-4-KCENTER, we can teach you about recovery.