Family Members and Rehabilitation

Family members do not choose rehabilitation. They are not there because they are intrinsically empathic or motivated to help. They are there because a tragedy has forced them to be.

They are not necessarily prepared for the trauma, the drama, the language, the questions, the financial burdens, or the time needed. They may not even be able to commit to a process and a person they don’t understand. They have other parts of their lives — jobs, kids, aging parents, hobbies, friends, and pets. They may also have addictions, financial issues, mental health problems, or physical issues not related to this tragedy.

So ... be aware. Rehabilitation is a choice professionals make. Not so with family members.