Long term abuse of alcohol and other drugs leaves an individual with brain-functioning impairments that take substantial time to reverse (if ever). During this time period, as well as during episodes of active substance abuse, an individual is not capable of making decisions that are in his/her best interest. Rational decision-making is severely impaired during the early stages of recovery.
Treatment programs that expect high initial recovery rates and little recidivism by the late stage alcoholic/drug abuser are often unsuccessful with this population. Programs designed for early stage alcoholics simply do not work with individuals in the later stages of the disease.
Relapses should be an expected part of the long-term recovery of the late stage alcoholic and drug abuser. Frequent shelter admissions and multiple detoxifications are services to this population that are usually necessary in the long-term recovery process.
Programs for this population should be designed for the impairments of the late stage alcoholic with recidivism being considered opportunities to break the cycle of emergency shelter, detoxification and a return to drinking.
Milestone adheres to both State and Federal prohibitions against refusing care to alcoholics and drug abusers because of their frequent use of the programs or discharge status.
