10/12/2025
Mental Health and Addictions.
First and foremost, Addictions, including behavioural and substance abuse problems are psychological that lead to mental health issues.
Many families do not understand how to help their addicted friends and family members
The decision to admit into any facility is not done by the family, though they play a critical role in the process.
The decision is purely clinical judgement and processing. Usually based on risk management and clinical outcomes.
First and foremost the family is encouraged to take the client for assessment. The clinicians will then advise them on what needs to be done and provide treatment recommendations.
There are 3 potential outcomes to an assessment:
1. Understanding of the problem as a chronic one and *Outpatient / home treatment options recommended* while further investigations are carried out.
2. Crisis/Acute (high risk) presentation that requires *immediate admission into an acute mental health care facility for stabilisation.*
3. *Admission for rehabilitation* where the client has tested positive to substances, has had bloods taken that indicate the client is physically fit for admission and the client's willingness to get help.
While an immediate admission may provide respite to the family, it may cause bigger relational problems with the client, which affects their recovery.
NOT EVERYONE STRUGGING WITH ADDICTIONS OR HARMFUL USE OF SUBSTANCES REQUIRES AN ADMISSION INTO A FACILITY.
Please understand that there is a process of elimination in health and medical practices, and understand that the clinicians make decisions in the best interest of the client, family and community in the long term, which can be a tricky balance to maintain.
Please have confidence and trust your clinicians decisions, but where you do not understand, you're welcome to ask your questions and they will gladly and openly explain things to you.
We wish you all the best during these difficult processes.
