It is painful to watch someone you love struggle with alcohol or drug addiction. You may have tried talking to them, offering support and asking them to seek help, but they keep refusing.

For many families in Kenya, this raises a difficult question: Can you force someone into rehab when they do not want to go?

The answer depends on the person’s situation, their ability to make treatment decisions and the applicable legal requirements.

In most situations, the best first step is to encourage the person to seek professional help. However, the law provides for certain circumstances where involuntary admission or emergency treatment may be considered.

This guide explains what families should know and what they can do when a loved one refuses addiction treatment.

Can You Force an Adult Into Rehab in Kenya?

You cannot simply force an adult into rehab because they use drugs or alcohol or because their family believes they need treatment.

The Mental Health Act, Cap. 248, provides for consent to treatment and sets out specific conditions for involuntary admission. These include situations where a qualified mental health practitioner determines that the person has a mental illness and meets the legal criteria for admission without consent.

For example, the law provides for involuntary admission where there is a serious likelihood of immediate or imminent harm to the person or others because of their mental illness. It also covers certain severe conditions where failure to admit the person is likely to cause serious deterioration or prevent necessary treatment.

These decisions require the proper assessment and legal procedures. A family member cannot make the decision alone.

It is also important to understand that not every rehabilitation centre is authorised to provide involuntary mental health admission. Families should seek guidance from a qualified health professional and an appropriately licensed facility.

What Should You Do When Someone Refuses Rehab?

If your loved one refuses treatment, there are practical steps you can take before considering more serious options.

1. Talk to Them When They Are Calm

Choose a time when the person is sober and able to have a conversation.

Avoid confronting them when they are intoxicated or angry. This can make the situation worse and may lead to an argument.

Explain what worries you using specific examples. You could mention changes in their health, relationships, work, finances or behaviour.

Try saying, “I am worried about you, and I want us to find a way to help you.”

This approach may make it easier for them to listen without feeling attacked.

2. Listen to Why They Do Not Want Treatment

There may be reasons behind their refusal.

Some people fear being judged by their family or community. Others worry about treatment costs, being away from home, losing their jobs or what life will be like after rehab.

Some may believe they can stop using substances on their own.

Listen to their concerns without dismissing them. Understanding what is holding them back can help you find a suitable way forward.

3. Speak to an Addiction Professional

You do not have to wait until your loved one agrees to treatment before seeking advice for yourself.

A qualified counsellor, mental health practitioner or addiction treatment professional can help your family understand the situation and discuss possible next steps.

You can explain what you have observed, ask what type of assessment may be appropriate and learn how to approach the person.

A professional can also help you understand whether outpatient support, counselling or residential treatment may be suitable.

4. Avoid Threats and Physical Force

It may be tempting to threaten, shame or physically force your loved one into a vehicle and take them to a rehabilitation centre.

However, this can increase conflict and may put everyone at risk. It can also violate the person’s rights if the proper legal requirements have not been met.

Instead, focus on getting professional guidance. If there is an immediate safety risk, seek urgent medical assistance rather than trying to manage the situation alone.

5. Set Clear Boundaries at Home

Supporting someone with addiction does not mean you must accept every behaviour.

You can set reasonable boundaries around money, safety, childcare, household responsibilities and behaviour towards other family members.

For example, you may decide not to give money that could be used to buy substances. You can also explain that threatening or violent behaviour will not be accepted in your home.

Boundaries should be communicated calmly and consistently. They are not a replacement for treatment, but they can help protect the family while you seek professional support.

When Can Involuntary Admission Be Considered in Kenya?

The Mental Health Act provides for involuntary admission in specific circumstances following the required professional assessment and procedures.

This may be considered where a person has a mental illness and:

• There is a serious likelihood of immediate or imminent harm to themselves or other people because of the condition.
• The condition is severe and their judgement is impaired, with a risk of serious deterioration if they are not admitted.
• Necessary treatment can only be provided through admission, subject to the legal requirements.

The law also provides for emergency admission and treatment when there is immediate danger and urgent care is needed to prevent harm.

However, refusing rehab alone does not automatically meet these conditions. A qualified professional must assess the circumstances, and the relevant legal procedures must be followed.

Families should not assume that these provisions allow them to force someone into an ordinary addiction rehabilitation centre. They should contact an appropriate health facility or qualified professional for guidance.

For the legal details, refer to the Kenya Mental Health Act on Kenya Law.

What If Your Loved One Is in Immediate Danger?

If your loved one is threatening suicide, threatening serious harm to another person, severely confused or experiencing another medical emergency, do not wait for them to agree to attend a routine rehab appointment.

Seek urgent medical assistance or take the appropriate emergency steps. Do not attempt to restrain or transport a violent person yourself if doing so would put you in danger.

A medical professional can assess the situation and determine what care is needed.

Drug or alcohol use can also cause serious medical problems, including overdose and dangerous withdrawal symptoms. If you suspect an overdose or another medical emergency, seek immediate medical attention.

Can Parents Force Their Adult Children Into Rehab?

Parents often feel responsible for helping their children, even when those children are adults.

However, being a parent does not automatically give you the right to make treatment decisions for an adult child who can make informed decisions for themselves.

If your adult child refuses rehab, you can still seek professional advice, discuss your concerns and offer practical support.

If there are serious concerns about their mental state or immediate safety, explain the situation to a qualified health professional so they can advise you on the appropriate steps.

The legal position may differ for minors, where a parent or guardian has a role in treatment decisions, subject to the applicable law and the child’s circumstances.

How Can You Encourage Someone to Accept Treatment?

Getting someone to consider treatment may take more than one conversation. Try to remain patient while being honest about the effects of their substance use.

Here are some approaches that may help:

• Show concern instead of blame. Explain how their behaviour affects their health and relationships without insulting them.
• Offer to attend an assessment with them. They may feel more comfortable if they know they will not have to face the process alone.
• Explain the available treatment options. Discuss the difference between counselling, outpatient care and residential rehabilitation.
• Talk about practical concerns. If cost, work or family responsibilities are stopping them, ask a treatment provider about possible arrangements.
• Seek support for yourself. Addiction affects family members too. Counselling can help you cope and decide how to respond.

You cannot control every decision your loved one makes, but you can offer support and help them understand the options available.

How New Chapter Place Can Help Families

When a loved one refuses treatment, families may not know where to begin. Speaking to an addiction treatment professional can help you understand the next steps.

New Chapter Place Counselling & Rehabilitation Centre in Kahawa Sukari, Nairobi, provides a point of contact for families seeking information about addiction treatment and recovery support.

You can contact the centre to discuss your concerns, ask about assessment options and find out which services may be appropriate for your loved one.

A conversation with a treatment provider does not mean that your family member must automatically be admitted. The appropriate treatment plan depends on an individual assessment, clinical needs and the applicable consent requirements.

Before making a decision, ask about the centre’s registration, the qualifications of its treatment team, the services available and how it handles situations involving safety concerns or refusal of treatment.

Contact New Chapter Place:

• Location: Riverside Court, Kahawa Sukari, Nairobi
• Phone: +254 722 777 955
• Website: https://newchapterplace.co.ke/

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I force my husband or wife into rehab in Kenya?

Not simply because you believe they need treatment. Involuntary admission may be considered only when the relevant legal and clinical requirements are met. Seek professional guidance about your specific situation.

2. What if someone refuses to stop using drugs?

You can encourage them to seek help, speak to an addiction professional and set reasonable boundaries. If there is an immediate risk of serious harm, seek urgent medical assistance.

3. Can a family member arrange a rehab assessment without the person’s consent?

A family member can generally contact a treatment provider to ask questions and explain their concerns. However, arranging a discussion is different from authorising treatment or admission without consent. The provider should explain the applicable requirements.

4. Can someone be admitted to rehab without their consent?

Involuntary admission may be possible in specific circumstances under the Mental Health Act. It requires the appropriate assessment and procedures. Refusal of addiction treatment by itself is not enough.

5. What should I do if my loved one becomes violent?

Prioritise your safety and the safety of others. Move away from immediate danger and seek emergency assistance where necessary. Do not try to physically restrain the person if doing so puts you at risk.

6. Can I take my child to rehab without their agreement?

For a minor, a parent or guardian has a role in treatment decisions, subject to applicable law and the child’s circumstances. A qualified provider should explain the consent and admission requirements before treatment begins.

7. Does someone have to hit rock bottom before seeking treatment?

No. A person does not have to lose their job, home or family before receiving help. Seeking professional advice early may help identify appropriate support before the situation becomes more serious.

8. Where can I get help for a loved one with addiction in Nairobi?

You can contact a qualified addiction treatment provider or mental health professional for guidance. New Chapter Place in Kahawa Sukari, Nairobi, can be contacted through its website to ask about available services and assessment options.

Final Thoughts

It can be difficult to watch someone you love struggle with addiction while refusing help. You may feel frustrated, worried or unsure about what to do next.

However, forcing someone into treatment is not a decision families should make on their own. The right approach depends on the person’s condition, their safety and the applicable legal requirements.

Start by seeking professional advice, having an honest conversation and learning about suitable treatment options. If there is an immediate risk of harm, seek urgent medical assistance.

You can support your loved one while respecting their rights and protecting your family.