Tequesta, Florida, United States
Futures of Recovery Healthcare specializes in treating adults 30 years and older suffering from substance use, mental health disorders, and co-occurring disorde...
$29,500 - $82,500
Learn / Involuntary Rehab: Frequently Asked Questions

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Tequesta, Florida, United States
Futures of Recovery Healthcare specializes in treating adults 30 years and older suffering from substance use, mental health disorders, and co-occurring disorde...
$29,500 - $82,500

Ad
Vail Valley, Colorado, United States
All Points North Lodge is a comprehensive wellness and personal development campus specializing in addiction, trauma, and mental health.
$49,000-$200,000

Ad
Malibu & Los Angeles, California
Oro House provides compassionate treatment focused on connection and a full continuum of services. Voted California's Best Addiction Treatment Center of 2021 by...
$30,000-90,000/month

Ad
Canton, Massachusetts, United States
Located on 6 acres of greenery, Bedrock Recovery Center is a hotel-style rehab providing trauma-informed and evidence-based treatment plans for adults.

Ad
San Clemente, California, United States
Located in sunny Southern California, Chapters Capistrano provides holistic, evidence-based treatment for substance abuse and addiction.
$39,500 (Insurance Accepted)

Ad
Los Angeles, California, United States
Nestled in the private hills of Los Angeles, Hollywood Hills Recovery is a boutique substance abuse treatment center offering holistic care.
$30,000+/month (Insurance Accepted)

Ad
Houston, Texas, United States
J. Flowers Health Institute provides personalized, concierge care, for busy professionals, adolescents and young adults, and highly complex individuals.
$49,500 - $129,000

Ad
Raymond, Illinois, United States
Located in the countryside, Lincoln Recovery takes an evidence-based approach to treatment, offering onsite detox, individualized programming and luxurious priv...
$25,000 - $35,000

Ad
Dana Point, California, United States
Monarch Shores offers luxury housing with beautiful ocean views and individualized addiction treatment in Southern California.
$34,500

Ad
Malibu, California, United States
A 5-star Yelp-rated Luxury Treatment Center in Malibu, offering a majestic ocean view, 1-1 doctorate-level therapy sessions, and private ensuite rooms.
$90,000 (Insurance Accepted)

Ad
Tucson, Arizona, United States
Using an innovative treatment program called The Sierra Model, Sierra Tucson has been rated one of the region’s top-ranking hospitals by U.S. News.
$20,000-$45,000

Ad
Newport Beach, California, United States
With multiple facilities strategically located on magnificent Newport Beach, Sierra by the Sea provides gender-specific, primary and long-term treatment.
$16,500-$33,000

Ad
Ashby, Massachusetts, United States
A 70-acre secluded retreat offering tailored treatment plans, evidence-based therapies, and a family-like atmosphere in the Massachusetts woodlands.
$22,000 - $31,000 (Insurance Accepted)

Ad
Florida, USA
Tikvah Lake Recovery is an extremely personalized executive treatment center for those who seek the ultimate in treatment, privacy, and luxurious comfort.
$60,000–$85,000 per month

Ad
Hollywood, Florida, United States
A multi-structured program that offers gender-specific residential housing and personal treatment plans.
$30,000-$60,000 (Insurance Accepted)
Yes, but only in certain locations.
There are currently 47 states and the District of Columbia that allow for involuntary addiction treatment.1 That number may change over time, so it’s important to stay up to date with your state’s local regulations.
It’s important to note that your state may or may not make a legal distinction between treating a person for alcohol addiction, drug addiction, and mental health. This distinction is usually intended to protect criminal court proceedings, and to prevent defendants from claiming insanity due to substance use.
Most states have two distinct processes by which a person is evaluated for involuntary care; one that applies to current patients, and another that applies to anyone in the midst of a mental health crisis. In many states, anyone can request that a person in crisis be evaluated by a court to see if they meet the criteria for involuntary mental health and/or addiction treatment2. However, this is not always the case. Florida, for example, requires evaluation by an authority, such as a law enforcement officer, clinical social worker, or physician.
Yes, but only in certain locations.
In many states, anyone can call for an emergency mental health evaluation of a person experiencing a mental health crisis. This includes crises that are caused by substance use. If your spouse is a habitual substance user, but is not in crisis, you may have fewer available options. Make sure to check the specific regulations in your state2 to find out which options are available to you.
If you are in physical danger due to your spouse, get yourself to safety before you help them find medical care. If you need help, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline3 at 1.800.799.SAFE (7233).
Possibly, depending on your location and your child’s exact age.
Every U.S. state has slightly different rules governing a minor’s autonomy when it comes to medical care4. Some of these laws are vague, and subject to interpretation by local authorities. You may be able to make some decisions on your teen’s behalf, while they have more control over others. For example, in Delaware, parental consent is required for a minor to receive inpatient treatment for substance use, but either a parent or a minor aged 14 and up may legally consent to outpatient treatment.
A person must meet certain criteria before they are legally required to attend rehab2. These criteria vary based on your location. They may or may not be the same as the criteria for mandated mental health treatment for other conditions.
It’s important to note that there may be different criteria for a person in crisis than for a person with ongoing but less severe symptoms. In a crisis situation, the person may be held briefly before either being released or sent to residential treatment. Often, this means that they will be held for 72 hours in a mental health center, during which time they will be evaluated to see if further treatment is needed.
Expert opinions vary. Most seem to believe that successful recovery due to forced rehab is rare, but possible.
A 2016 study found that “mandated treatment of drug dependence conflicts with drug users’ human rights5 and is not effective in treating addiction.” In many cases, mandatory rehab is offered as an alternative to jail. As a result, some rehab centers resemble correctional facilities6. If a person decides to go to rehab, on the other hand, they may have more say in choosing their own program.
It’s important to note that a person’s motivation to heal has a great impact on their recovery from substance misuse7. Certain models of healing, including 12-Step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous8, emphasize the value in admitting that you have a problem and deciding to make a change. Forced rehab bypasses this step. If a person hasn’t made an intentional commitment to recovery, rehab can be more difficult and less effective9.
In some cases, however, people who are forced into rehab ultimately do recover10, and even express gratitude for their loved one’s decisions. Reporters of these cases emphasize that these stories are the exception, and not the rule.
Some experts disagree with this assessment, even stating that “outcomes for those who are legally pressured to enter treatment are as good as or better than outcomes for those who entered treatment without legal pressure.11” However, there is little publicly available data to support this claim.
Yes, if you get help from a professional interventionist.
To stage an intervention, you’ll start by gathering a group of people who care about someone struggling with substance use. Ultimately, you’ll all sit down with that person face to face, explain how their substance use has affected your lives, and encourage them to get professional help.
Unfortunately, there is little research regarding the effectiveness of interventions. This is likely because many people plan these meetings on their own, without assistance from a professional. Because emotions will be running high at every stage of the process—from the moment you begin planning to the end of the intervention itself—it’s extremely important to have an experienced, impartial perspective to guide you and your loved one toward the goal.
Professional interventionists are often recovered substance users themselves. As a result, these experts are able to see the conversation from both sides, advocating for both your and your loved one’s best interests. They may also be trained in nonviolent communication, connected to local and national resources, and able to answer complex questions about rehab and recovery.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that there may be a high success rate for interventions conducted by professionals12. The presence of a third party in the room can also defuse potentially volatile situations.
It’s possible. However, the answer to this question is rapidly changing.
In many states, court-ordered rehab can be offered as an alternative to jail time13. This does not necessarily protect your loved one from accruing a criminal record. It also depends on a substance user’s exact circumstances. Possession of some substances, including dangerous substances, is perfectly legal, and does not represent a risk of legal charges. Possession of other substances may result in criminal charges, but only in certain amounts. And some are highly illegal, and are grounds for felony charges in any amount.
These regulations vary widely from state to state. And as more and more municipalities begin decriminalizing substance use14, you can expect the rules to change significantly in the near future. If you’re concerned about the legal consequences of forcing your loved one into rehab, it’s best to check with a lawyer or other expert to learn more about your options.
It depends on your area, and on the results of your loved one’s professional evaluation.
When a person in crisis goes to a mental health facility involuntarily15, they will likely be held for 72 hours. However, this varies based on the laws in your area. During or after that emergency hold, they’ll usually be evaluated to see whether further treatment is required. If it is, they may be held for about two weeks. Following that initial period of treatment, they may be released to an outpatient program, or admitted to a residential facility.
Every person’s experience is different, and options vary based on each patient’s insurance, location, and physical and mental health. If possible, it’s best to stay in close communication with the person’s team of healthcare providers. This allows you to make decisions with or on behalf of your loved one as the situation develops.
If your loved one won’t go to rehab, you still have options. And you are not alone.
Substance misuse can have a huge impact not only on the person who participates in it, but also on their family and community. It’s important to recognize the effects of their behavior on your own mental health and wellbeing. Thankfully, there are many resources available for people who love someone struggling with addiction.
Al-Anon is a support group for people with a loved one who struggles with substance use16. Alateen is a similar group, specifically for young people and teenagers. CoDA, or Codependents Anonymous17, is a support group for people who struggle with codependency, which is often exacerbated by relationships with substance users. All of these are 12-Step groups, modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous, and designed to help you build a healthier, more sustainable life.
If you’re not interested in joining a group, you may consider seeing a therapist who specializes in treating partners of people with substance use disorders. Or you may just pick up a book about this relationship dynamic. Whatever you decide, remember that your mental health is important, too. Whether or not your loved one ultimately gets the help they need, you also deserve to heal.
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Ad
Tequesta, Florida, United States
Futures of Recovery Healthcare specializes in treating adults 30 years and older suffering from substance use, mental health disorders, and co-occurring disorde...
$29,500 - $82,500

Ad
Vail Valley, Colorado, United States
All Points North Lodge is a comprehensive wellness and personal development campus specializing in addiction, trauma, and mental health.
$49,000-$200,000

Ad
Malibu & Los Angeles, California
Oro House provides compassionate treatment focused on connection and a full continuum of services. Voted California's Best Addiction Treatment Center of 2021 by...
$30,000-90,000/month

Ad
Canton, Massachusetts, United States
Located on 6 acres of greenery, Bedrock Recovery Center is a hotel-style rehab providing trauma-informed and evidence-based treatment plans for adults.

Ad
San Clemente, California, United States
Located in sunny Southern California, Chapters Capistrano provides holistic, evidence-based treatment for substance abuse and addiction.
$39,500 (Insurance Accepted)

Ad
Los Angeles, California, United States
Nestled in the private hills of Los Angeles, Hollywood Hills Recovery is a boutique substance abuse treatment center offering holistic care.
$30,000+/month (Insurance Accepted)

Ad
Houston, Texas, United States
J. Flowers Health Institute provides personalized, concierge care, for busy professionals, adolescents and young adults, and highly complex individuals.
$49,500 - $129,000

Ad
Raymond, Illinois, United States
Located in the countryside, Lincoln Recovery takes an evidence-based approach to treatment, offering onsite detox, individualized programming and luxurious priv...
$25,000 - $35,000

Ad
Dana Point, California, United States
Monarch Shores offers luxury housing with beautiful ocean views and individualized addiction treatment in Southern California.
$34,500

Ad
Malibu, California, United States
A 5-star Yelp-rated Luxury Treatment Center in Malibu, offering a majestic ocean view, 1-1 doctorate-level therapy sessions, and private ensuite rooms.
$90,000 (Insurance Accepted)

Ad
Tucson, Arizona, United States
Using an innovative treatment program called The Sierra Model, Sierra Tucson has been rated one of the region’s top-ranking hospitals by U.S. News.
$20,000-$45,000

Ad
Newport Beach, California, United States
With multiple facilities strategically located on magnificent Newport Beach, Sierra by the Sea provides gender-specific, primary and long-term treatment.
$16,500-$33,000

Ad
Ashby, Massachusetts, United States
A 70-acre secluded retreat offering tailored treatment plans, evidence-based therapies, and a family-like atmosphere in the Massachusetts woodlands.
$22,000 - $31,000 (Insurance Accepted)

Ad
Florida, USA
Tikvah Lake Recovery is an extremely personalized executive treatment center for those who seek the ultimate in treatment, privacy, and luxurious comfort.
$60,000–$85,000 per month

Ad
Hollywood, Florida, United States
A multi-structured program that offers gender-specific residential housing and personal treatment plans.
$30,000-$60,000 (Insurance Accepted)
Yes, but only in certain locations.
There are currently 47 states and the District of Columbia that allow for involuntary addiction treatment.1 That number may change over time, so it’s important to stay up to date with your state’s local regulations.
It’s important to note that your state may or may not make a legal distinction between treating a person for alcohol addiction, drug addiction, and mental health. This distinction is usually intended to protect criminal court proceedings, and to prevent defendants from claiming insanity due to substance use.
Most states have two distinct processes by which a person is evaluated for involuntary care; one that applies to current patients, and another that applies to anyone in the midst of a mental health crisis. In many states, anyone can request that a person in crisis be evaluated by a court to see if they meet the criteria for involuntary mental health and/or addiction treatment2. However, this is not always the case. Florida, for example, requires evaluation by an authority, such as a law enforcement officer, clinical social worker, or physician.
Yes, but only in certain locations.
In many states, anyone can call for an emergency mental health evaluation of a person experiencing a mental health crisis. This includes crises that are caused by substance use. If your spouse is a habitual substance user, but is not in crisis, you may have fewer available options. Make sure to check the specific regulations in your state2 to find out which options are available to you.
If you are in physical danger due to your spouse, get yourself to safety before you help them find medical care. If you need help, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline3 at 1.800.799.SAFE (7233).
Possibly, depending on your location and your child’s exact age.
Every U.S. state has slightly different rules governing a minor’s autonomy when it comes to medical care4. Some of these laws are vague, and subject to interpretation by local authorities. You may be able to make some decisions on your teen’s behalf, while they have more control over others. For example, in Delaware, parental consent is required for a minor to receive inpatient treatment for substance use, but either a parent or a minor aged 14 and up may legally consent to outpatient treatment.
A person must meet certain criteria before they are legally required to attend rehab2. These criteria vary based on your location. They may or may not be the same as the criteria for mandated mental health treatment for other conditions.
It’s important to note that there may be different criteria for a person in crisis than for a person with ongoing but less severe symptoms. In a crisis situation, the person may be held briefly before either being released or sent to residential treatment. Often, this means that they will be held for 72 hours in a mental health center, during which time they will be evaluated to see if further treatment is needed.
Expert opinions vary. Most seem to believe that successful recovery due to forced rehab is rare, but possible.
A 2016 study found that “mandated treatment of drug dependence conflicts with drug users’ human rights5 and is not effective in treating addiction.” In many cases, mandatory rehab is offered as an alternative to jail. As a result, some rehab centers resemble correctional facilities6. If a person decides to go to rehab, on the other hand, they may have more say in choosing their own program.
It’s important to note that a person’s motivation to heal has a great impact on their recovery from substance misuse7. Certain models of healing, including 12-Step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous8, emphasize the value in admitting that you have a problem and deciding to make a change. Forced rehab bypasses this step. If a person hasn’t made an intentional commitment to recovery, rehab can be more difficult and less effective9.
In some cases, however, people who are forced into rehab ultimately do recover10, and even express gratitude for their loved one’s decisions. Reporters of these cases emphasize that these stories are the exception, and not the rule.
Some experts disagree with this assessment, even stating that “outcomes for those who are legally pressured to enter treatment are as good as or better than outcomes for those who entered treatment without legal pressure.11” However, there is little publicly available data to support this claim.
Yes, if you get help from a professional interventionist.
To stage an intervention, you’ll start by gathering a group of people who care about someone struggling with substance use. Ultimately, you’ll all sit down with that person face to face, explain how their substance use has affected your lives, and encourage them to get professional help.
Unfortunately, there is little research regarding the effectiveness of interventions. This is likely because many people plan these meetings on their own, without assistance from a professional. Because emotions will be running high at every stage of the process—from the moment you begin planning to the end of the intervention itself—it’s extremely important to have an experienced, impartial perspective to guide you and your loved one toward the goal.
Professional interventionists are often recovered substance users themselves. As a result, these experts are able to see the conversation from both sides, advocating for both your and your loved one’s best interests. They may also be trained in nonviolent communication, connected to local and national resources, and able to answer complex questions about rehab and recovery.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that there may be a high success rate for interventions conducted by professionals12. The presence of a third party in the room can also defuse potentially volatile situations.
It’s possible. However, the answer to this question is rapidly changing.
In many states, court-ordered rehab can be offered as an alternative to jail time13. This does not necessarily protect your loved one from accruing a criminal record. It also depends on a substance user’s exact circumstances. Possession of some substances, including dangerous substances, is perfectly legal, and does not represent a risk of legal charges. Possession of other substances may result in criminal charges, but only in certain amounts. And some are highly illegal, and are grounds for felony charges in any amount.
These regulations vary widely from state to state. And as more and more municipalities begin decriminalizing substance use14, you can expect the rules to change significantly in the near future. If you’re concerned about the legal consequences of forcing your loved one into rehab, it’s best to check with a lawyer or other expert to learn more about your options.
It depends on your area, and on the results of your loved one’s professional evaluation.
When a person in crisis goes to a mental health facility involuntarily15, they will likely be held for 72 hours. However, this varies based on the laws in your area. During or after that emergency hold, they’ll usually be evaluated to see whether further treatment is required. If it is, they may be held for about two weeks. Following that initial period of treatment, they may be released to an outpatient program, or admitted to a residential facility.
Every person’s experience is different, and options vary based on each patient’s insurance, location, and physical and mental health. If possible, it’s best to stay in close communication with the person’s team of healthcare providers. This allows you to make decisions with or on behalf of your loved one as the situation develops.
If your loved one won’t go to rehab, you still have options. And you are not alone.
Substance misuse can have a huge impact not only on the person who participates in it, but also on their family and community. It’s important to recognize the effects of their behavior on your own mental health and wellbeing. Thankfully, there are many resources available for people who love someone struggling with addiction.
Al-Anon is a support group for people with a loved one who struggles with substance use16. Alateen is a similar group, specifically for young people and teenagers. CoDA, or Codependents Anonymous17, is a support group for people who struggle with codependency, which is often exacerbated by relationships with substance users. All of these are 12-Step groups, modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous, and designed to help you build a healthier, more sustainable life.
If you’re not interested in joining a group, you may consider seeing a therapist who specializes in treating partners of people with substance use disorders. Or you may just pick up a book about this relationship dynamic. Whatever you decide, remember that your mental health is important, too. Whether or not your loved one ultimately gets the help they need, you also deserve to heal.
Return to Blog Home

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