Asking for help with substance use problems might seem complicated because you might not know how to talk to your doctor about what is going on. Nevertheless, an open conversation might help your doctor to understand your problems and to decide whether outpatient care will be the right choice for you. In case you consider taking Palm Beach outpatient rehab program, consulting your general practitioner first might be a helpful idea.
Preparation for Your Doctor’s Visit
It is not necessary that you find all the answers for yourself before talking to a healthcare provider. You should think about what is going on, how substance use is affecting your life, and what kind of help you need. It would be helpful to write down several points that you will discuss with your doctor.
Some of the things that you might want to tell your doctor are frequency of substance use, attempts to reduce use or to quit altogether, how substance use influenced your relationships, work, sleep, financial situation, and physical condition. If you are taking any medications or have some other health conditions, let your doctor know.
Be Truthful About Your Substance Use
Doctors are taught to talk about substance use in a nonjudgmental way. By being honest about how much, how often, and what kind of substances you’ve been using, you will allow your doctor to get a better sense of what is going on. Do not downplay your substance use because you are ashamed of it or feel embarrassed.
All you need to do is tell your doctor what you have been using, for how long, and if you have any problems stopping yourself or getting urges to continue using the substance. If you have had withdrawals before, let your doctor know.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
It would be useful to make some questions beforehand. The following may serve as a guide for this purpose.
- Is outpatient rehab right for me?
Inquire whether you can be treated on an outpatient basis based on your particular circumstances. Factors like substance use, physical and psychological condition, home environment, previous experience can influence your doctor’s decision.
- Do I need any medical examinations first?
Your doctor may advise you to have yourself examined, tested or assessed to see the impact of substance use on your state of health. The results will be useful both for identifying the medical problems that require attention while recovering from substance use.
- Which kind of therapy would suit me?
Various types of treatments are available within the outpatient programs like counseling, therapy, medical treatment, educational sessions, etc. Find out what type of therapy suits you best.
Explain Your Expectations About The Treatment
It is important to let your doctor know what you are planning to achieve from this treatment. While some people wish to quit the substance completely, others may just need some help with dealing with their addictions or triggers that might cause a relapse. This would allow your doctor to prescribe the proper treatment for you.
Moreover, you can state any problems that you think could make your treatment process difficult for you. For example, you might still have to work or look after children. In this case, it might be more comfortable for you to get outpatient treatment which would give you an opportunity to continue living at home and leading at least a part of your usual lifestyle.
Discuss Your Mental And Physical Health
As we have already mentioned, recovery is not only about substance abuse. Let your doctor know about your feelings: if you experience some sadness, depression, inability to sleep, stress, lack of concentration, and anything else that might bother you.
Also, it is necessary to tell your doctor about all your physical symptoms and your current state of health.
Conclusion
Discussing treatment for substance abuse with a physician is a very crucial first step to recovery. Share details on substance abuse, any health issues, treatment goals, and responsibilities with the physician. Discuss if outpatient treatment is the right approach and inquire about professional help. In case you are thinking of going through outpatient treatment in Palm Beach, your physician can be a good point to start the discussion.