Regular consultations and checkups are very important to keep in mind, especially if you have a personal medical concern about yourself or your loved ones. However, depending on the situation of your loved ones or close friends, you might find it quite common for them to ignore medical treatment. They may justify skipping it by saying that they don’t experience any symptoms at all, or it’s not that big of a deal.
Furthermore, you might find it also common for them to avoid conversations related to healthcare at home or at family gatherings. Nevertheless, it’s important to consider what else might be the reason why your loved ones or close friends resist getting treatment so you can help better guide them toward getting the much-needed care they deserve.
They’re Not Aware of the Benefits of Preventive Care
If someone in your family or social circle is generally in good health, they usually think it’s okay to avoid any preventive healthcare or regular checkups. This kind of practice shouldn’t be ignored, though.
Research has shown that men, in particular, are more hesitant to seek out treatment or preventive healthcare. This is oftentimes because they tend to have a harder time understanding what preventive care can do for their overall well-being. Regardless of your age, gender, or current state of health, it’s always quite helpful to know your health risks early on.
They Lack Necessary Financial Freedom and Support
The majority of the people that are hesitant about seeking out treatment might also be afraid of experiencing medical debt. This is not an irrational fear, however, since a recent study from the U.S. Census Bureau revealed that nearly 1 in 4 people under the age of 65 have experienced medical debt.
Considering the high prices of medical costs and personal barriers that people are facing, it’s not really hard to see why the cost is such a common concern among potential patients. People are also reluctant to see a medical professional mainly because they lack the time or support they need to deal with scheduling appointments and gathering paperwork.
They’re Not Aware That There’s a Problem
Many people may also think that there’s no problem at all with their overall health. For instance, teenagers may be especially resistant to seeking out treatment because they think that there’s nothing wrong with their behavior or current health, especially if they see their peer group also engaging in high-risk behaviors.
However, early intervention is always important, since it helps to ensure the best quality of care. For example, addiction help for adolescents, in particular, can help to treat substance abuse before it escalates into a bigger issue. Denial also plays a huge role in it, too, since a significant number of people assume it’s pointless to go see the doctor if they can handle the current state of their health.
They’re Wary of Being Judged or Embarrassed
Some people with certain illnesses or diseases (such as mental health disorders or even STIs) might find it quite uncomfortable to share their medical history with doctors. Adults, in particular, are afraid of being embarrassed especially during physical exams. Some exams are also very invasive, such as those of the prostate and breast.
Apart from that, some people are also reluctant to share their symptoms, since they don’t want to be judged by other people. Moreover, they’re also concerned about receiving negative feedback from their family or doctor. Although fear is admittedly very problematic for some individuals, seeking out available treatment for yourself or loved ones is always imperative.
They Don’t Trust Doctors
Another factor that might contribute as to why people resist getting treatment is the lack of trust in doctors. Many people find it difficult to trust the healthcare system because of its fundamental and structural issues with the way they can access and receive care. This is, unfortunately, a growing problem among Americans.
In fact, according to a study conducted by Gallup in 2014, only 25% of people expressed a great deal of confidence in the U.S. healthcare system. Unfortunately, the lack of trust in our health system is even higher among people of color and other marginalized groups. While it can be quite difficult to encourage someone to start seeking out treatment or checkups, it’s important to remember that it might take a considerable amount of time for you to have a real influence on their decision as well as their perspective.
It’s also important to point out that it’s ultimately their decision whether or not to seek care or help from doctors. Although this might be tough to accept, you have to let your loved one or friend decide for themselves when it comes to seeking out treatment. By offering gentle guidance, though, you can ideally help empower them to finally take charge of their wellbeing.
