The 10%

THE REMEDY WILL REQUIRE A RADICAL SHIFT

The remedy will require a radical shift in focus and thinking. The remedy will require some risk!

We have made some progress. What’s the next step?

The fundamental problem we have is utilization not efficacy.

We argue over what pathway to recovery is the best. In the meantime, they all have one thing in common: NO ONE USES THEM.

10% ENGAGEMENT???

Think about something: we work in an industry that has accepted “MAX 10% Engagement”.

That is na “Maximum 10%” will get help. Even the recovery support profession focuses (mainly) on the “willing 10%”.

The typical recovery coach is trained to serve the willing 10%.

But look closer. Look at other behavioral health “helping professions”. Same thing.

THE REMEDY – PROFESSIONALS???

Maybe a little higher (depression = 20 to 40%) or maybe a little lower (clinical EAP utilization = 3%)

BUT… generally speaking. We don’t even TOUCH (let alone help) the majority of people in need.

As a society we are firmly attached to the “come and get it when you want it” model of behavioral health care.

THE REMEDY – APPS

Most apps trade on that model. Every “wearable” trades on that model. The “new rehab” down the street trades on that model.

The breakthrough medication trades on that come and get it model. On and on.

In the meantime. The majority don’t want it and never, ever will come and get it.

And hence … we stand no chance.

Because we are trying to solve the wrong problem.

PROBLEM

You ever hear the joke: How many psychologists does it take to change a lightbulb?

Answer is 1 … but the lightbulb has to “WANT to CHANGE”.

It’s in our bones.

We only help people who want help… and that will never get it done.

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