Top 5 Objections to Getting Your Loved One into Addiction Treatment—And How to Handle Them

Getting a loved one into treatment can be one of the hardest things a family will ever face. You may encounter resistance, manipulation, excuses, or even heartfelt promises. But addiction doesn’t wait. At Narconon Ojai, we’ve seen firsthand how critical it is to take action—not tomorrow, not next week, but now.

Here are the top 5 objections we hear—and the best ways you can handle them.

1. “I can quit on my own. I promise if I relapse again, I’ll check myself in. I’ll even put it in writing.”

This is one of the most common lines. It may sound reassuring, but it’s really a delay tactic. Addiction is cunning and will use any excuse to avoid treatment. Most people who could truly quit on their own wouldn’t be in the situation they’re in.

How to handle it:

Remind them that they’ve likely made this promise before. A written contract won’t stop the cravings or lifestyle patterns. Say: “We’ve heard this before, and I’m not willing to wait for another relapse. I love you too much to gamble with your life.”

2. “I’m going to do an outpatient program.”

A job can seem like a good excuse—but without sobriety, there won’t be a job much longer. Addiction always catches up.

How to handle it:

Explain that outpatient can be a step after residential, but it rarely works as a starting point for someone who’s been caught in the addiction spiral. Say: “Outpatient might sound easier, but you need a full reset—away from your triggers, influences, and routine.”

3. “I can’t take that much time off work.”

How to handle it:

Reframe the conversation: “What’s more important—your job or your life? You can’t keep either if this continues. And if you complete this program, you’ll come back stronger, clearer, and more capable than ever.”

4. “I don’t have a problem. It’s because of [stress, my partner, my job, trauma, etc.].”

This is classic deflection. While external stressors can fuel addiction, the core issue remains untreated substance dependence.

How to handle it:

Don’t argue. Instead, align with their reasoning: “Maybe that’s true. But don’t you want a safe place to get clear-headed and figure that out? Let’s at least take the time to look at it together.”

5. “I just need some more time. I’ll go after I handle [this one thing].”

There’s always “one more thing.” But that one thing turns into months…or never.

How to handle it:

Say: “That thing will still be there. Right now, your health, your future, and your life have to come first. Let’s handle this now so you can handle the rest later—with a clear mind.”

Why Ultimatums Work—and Why You Shouldn’t Wait

When done with love and boundaries, ultimatums can be lifesaving. It’s not about control—it’s about saying, “I love you too much to let you destroy yourself.” Standing firm can often be the wake-up call the person needs.

The Power of a Professional Intervention

A trained interventionist knows how to break through the lies, fear, and resistance. At Narconon Ojai, we’ve seen hundreds of cases where a professional intervention was the turning point. You don’t have to do it alone—and you shouldn’t do it alone.

How Narconon Ojai Helps—and Why We’re Different

Unlike 12-step programs, dual diagnosis treatment, or outpatient models, Narconon Ojai is a comprehensive, holistic, drug-free residential program. We don’t label people or put them on more medication. Instead, we address the root cause of addiction through a step-by-step method that includes:

• A full drug-free withdrawal process with 24/7 support
• Sauna-based detox to eliminate stored toxins
• Life skills training to rebuild purpose, ethics, and decision-making
• No “relapse is normal” mindset—we expect success, not failure

Our beautiful private facility in the hills of Ojai provides the peace and separation needed for real healing—away from the chaos of addiction.

Why Residential Treatment is Essential

Addiction doesn’t happen in a vacuum—and it doesn’t get solved in one hour a week. Residential treatment removes the person from destructive environments, routines, and people, giving them the full focus and time needed to rebuild from the inside out.

Need help getting your loved one into treatment?

We can support you with intervention resources, guidance, and a step-by-step plan to make it happen. Call us today. Don’t wait.