The "concerned other" call: using family links and networks to overcome resistance to addiction treatment

Subst Use Misuse. 1999 Feb;34(3):363-82. doi: 10.3109/10826089909035651.

Abstract

Untreated chemical dependency costs the United States over $165 billion annually. Meanwhile, treatment offsets these costs by a ratio of $7 saved for every $1 spent. But the vast majority of chemically dependent people (CDPs) remain uninvolved in either treatment or self-help groups. It is therefore imperative that more effective ways be developed for therapeutically engaging them. One avenue is to maximize the opportunity presented when a "concerned other" (CO) person-such as a family member, friend, coworker, or clergy member-contacts a treatment agency to get help for a CDP. This paper provides a method for handling such calls. Specific guidelines are presented as to (a) the kind of information to b e gathered, (b) procedures to be followed, and (c) options to be offered toward mobilizing the CO and other family/social network members in successfully effecting CDP treatment engagement.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Family / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Self-Help Groups
  • Social Support*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / therapy*