Professional help and getting the best possible treatment is critical in giving you the best possible opportunity to overcome an addiction to alcohol or drugs.

But first you need to understand (and I say this often) - that any drug rehab program or alcoholism treatment center you attend - is only the beginning of the journey.

There is only so much you can do in the space of a few weeks. Going to a alcohol/drug treatment center will hopefully help you lay a good foundation, but your ultimate success is dependent on you and the effort you put in.

I read a good description on another site. Picking a alcohol/drug treatment center is a bit like deciding what kind of gym to join. Gyms vary in quality, cost etc. - but mostly all the equipment you need will be there - and so your success is ultimately determined by the effort you put in.

The most important part of any treatment you ultimately decide on however - is how effectively it prepares you for the day you leave its doors and you’re on your own again. And that is the reason I recommend 12-step based treatment programs first and foremost - because they provide you with a clear and proven path to follow once you leave their doors.

The reason for high relapse rates for addicts leaving treatment - is not because the treatment or program was terrible or doesn’t work - but because many just aren’t prepared to put the work and effort in after they leave to ensure they stay on the road of recovery.

So the ultimate determinant in deciding on any form of alcohol/addiction treatment program should be what path or program they suggest (or provide for you) when you leave their doors.

At least if you decide on going the 12-step based treatment program route - you know you’ll have a clear and proven path to follow. And so how successful you are boils down to one person - and that is YOU. So remember when making your decision on choosing any form of drug and alcohol rehab program - to think big picture and long-term. Not just the immediate benefits it provides.