Practical Step-by-Step Guide: How to Seek Help for Someone You Care About, and How to Direct Them to Specialized Treatment Centers in Jordan

Referral as a Deliberate Rescue Action

Making the decision to seek help for a loved one (child, sibling, friend) is undoubtedly the hardest and most important step in the recovery journey. At this moment, the person making the referral (you) faces a difficult internal conflict between the desire to protect and the fear of stigma or the anticipated reaction of the person using substances.

On this platform, we emphasize a fundamental truth: a successful referral is not tattling; it is an emergency medical intervention intended to save a life. Remaining silent under the guise of discretion may contribute to worsening the situation. Success at this stage depends on choosing the "right path" that takes into account the person's physical condition, mental health, and legal safety. In Jordan, official treatment pathways are available through authorized institutions that provide specialized care and support.

The Legal Reality in Jordan: Jordanian legislation regarding narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances provides legal protections in cases of voluntary treatment according to the conditions and procedures established by law.

Referral Options and Pathways in Jordan

Several pathways are available in Jordan for accessing treatment and support, each with its own procedures:

Pathway (1): Governmental Pathway (National Center for Addict Rehabilitation)

This is one of the government centers specializing in the treatment and rehabilitation of addiction cases and operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Health.

Who is it for? For individuals seeking specialized medical and psychological treatment within the public healthcare sector.

Steps:

1. Contact the center or visit its location in Shafa Badran - Amman.

2. Request voluntary treatment and ask about the procedures for admitting the case.

3. Undergo an initial assessment by doctors and specialists to determine the person's treatment needs and the appropriate treatment plan.

4. Begin the treatment program determined by the medical team, which may include detoxification and psychological and behavioral rehabilitation.

Pathway (2): Security-Preventive Pathway (Anti-Narcotics Department - Addiction Treatment Center)

The Anti-Narcotics Department provides a specialized center for treating addiction cases in Arjan - Amman.

Who is it for? For individuals and families who wish to seek assistance and treatment through the relevant official authorities.

Steps:

1. Contact the Anti-Narcotics Department and ask about the Addiction Treatment Center and the procedures for admitting a case.

2. Visit the center according to the instructions provided by the relevant authority and request voluntary treatment.

3. The person's condition is assessed and treatment and follow-up are provided under specialist supervision.

Pathway (3): Private Pathway (Private Hospitals and Centers)

Addiction treatment and rehabilitation services are also available through some private hospitals and specialized centers in Jordan.

Who is it for? For those who prefer the private sector or require specific treatment or accommodation options. It is important to ensure that the treatment provider is licensed by the relevant official authorities.

Steps:

1. Ensure that the center is licensed and that its treatment program follows recognized medical, psychological, and scientific practices.

2. Ask in advance about the treatment program, its duration, financial costs, and the follow-up process after treatment.

Protocol for Persuading Referral

Before Starting the Referral, How Do You Persuade the Person?

Before referring someone to a treatment provider, it is important to prepare the conversation in a way that reduces confrontation and increases the likelihood that the person will accept help.

1. Alliance Against the Disease

Wrong approach: "You are an addict and must go to the clinic to fix yourself... or you are destroying your life."

Correct approach: "We can see that you are struggling, and we love you and don't want to lose you. The center is not a prison; it is a place that can help you recover and receive the support you need. We will go with you and be by your side every step of the way."

2. Choosing the Moment of Clarity

Do not attempt a referral or begin an important discussion while the person is under the influence of substances or experiencing intense anger or distress. Choose a time when they are calmer and better able to listen and discuss the situation.

3. Providing the "Safe Option"

Explain that the goal is to receive medical and psychological treatment and support, not punishment, and ask the relevant official authority about the confidentiality procedures and legal protections applicable to the case.

Referral Action Steps

Step 1: Initial Consultation: Contact a specialist or qualified treatment provider to gather information and understand the available options before discussing the practical steps with the person.

Step 2: Prepare the "Emergency Kit": Make sure you have the required documents and know the center's location, admission procedures, and contact numbers.

Step 3: Physical Accompaniment: It is preferable not to send the person alone. Having a supportive person accompany them to the center can provide a sense of security and reduce the likelihood of withdrawing from treatment at the last moment.

Worksheet (Action Plan)

Exercise: "Safety Circle"

1. Save the following contact numbers in your phone to make it easier to reach the relevant authorities and seek help when needed:

2. Identify the "supportive person" in your family who will accompany you during the referral process.

Remember: The earlier help is sought, the greater the opportunity to intervene and begin treatment before substance use causes further harm to the person's health, life, and family.

References

1. Jordanian Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law and its amendments.

2. UNODC. (2020). International Standards for the Treatment of Drug Use Disorders.

3. Jordanian Ministry of Health - Mental Health Directorate. National protocols and guidelines related to addiction treatment.

4. SAMHSA. (2021). Guidance and resources for families seeking treatment and support.

5. World Health Organization (WHO). Guidelines for the Identification and Management of Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders.