To Whom It May Concern:   I've been asked to write this letter and explain why treatment was important for me. I sought treatment for alcoholism on both and inpatient and outpatient level. Both were court ordered because of driving violations. My last conviction was in 2001. I have been sober since that time.   In many ways, I was actually one of the lucky ones. I sought treatment before my health failed, or I hurt myself or someone else. During the course of treatment, I felt I was given tools that I have kept in my arsenal long after walking out the doors of a treatment center, or through the doors of a meeting for the first time. In the initial stages of treatment, most are encouraged to make a 12 Step program part of their recovery. 12 Step programs, as the old adage says, work if you work them. In the early stages of recovery, they are excellent for sort of "thinking for you when you can't think for yourself". I had some knowledge of AA, etc before going into treatment, but actually going through the process allowed me to expand on that knowledge, and more importantly put it to use in a way that supported my sobriety in a way that was personal to me.   While in treatment, I learned that there was a triangle of emotions that kept one in the cycle of addiction, anger, fear, and resentment. I came to think of the Steps as behavior modification exercises to break that cycle. It is my opinion that one of the keys to staying sober is to learn how to successfully manage those emotions without resorting to the use of chemicals. Treatment taught me healthier ways to deal with the day-to-day things that used to enable my using.   My life has changed considerably since I went into recovery. I ended a destructive marriage to an active alcoholic. I have recently purchased my own home. My relationships with my family have deepened and grown richer. My spiritual path has become clear. My relationship with my own body has changed completely. Mine is a family run business, and I have earned back the respect of my family and co-workers in the workplace. I am able to give of myself to the community by being involved in projects like Project Vox. It has been amazing journey. One that is more rewarding every day. None of which would have been possible without the support of treatment.   Sincerely, Deborah Garrett   Printer Friendly Version Add to my Favorites