Once I Go to Treatment, Am I “Cured” of Being an Alcoholic or Addict?

Image: Fountain Hills Recovery

Oh, I wish that were true!

Just like going to the gym for a month will not make up for a life filled with bad eating and poor exercise habits, a month (or six) in a rehabilitation facility will not “cure” an addict or alcoholic of their condition.

It can give someone the space to clear their mind, allow the body to begin to repair itself, and do the personal work necessary to focus on why they use substances the way they do.

For some people, it is the beginning of a journey that leads them to sobriety or ways to moderate their consumption. For others, it is merely a stop along the way of their descent into losing everything, and they may have to go to rehab multiple times. For others, it will make no difference at all.

The conventional thinking is there is no cure for alcoholism or addiction, but there is ongoing treatment in the form of counseling, 12-step programs, and connection with others.

The most important thing: don’t do it alone!