George’s Treatment Experience
What was life like before treatment at the Dilworth Center?
My life before treatment was unmanageable. Drinking was affecting my health, and getting in the way of me being the person I wanted to be — for myself, my friends, and my family.
How did you decide upon treatment at Dilworth Center?
When I first started seeking treatment, Dilworth Center was the first place that came recommended from a local health professional.
What was treatment at Dilworth Center like?
Dilworth Center was my first treatment experience, so I really didn’t know what to expect. From the moment I called, the care and professionalism at Dilworth Center really helped me feel at ease.
The educational component of the lectures became foundational to my understanding of the disease behind addiction. The small-format group therapy led by my counselor Michael was the meat-and-potatoes of my early recovery and where I really started to work the program.
What was virtual treatment during a pandemic like?
Having started my recovery during the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual treatment is the only treatment I’ve ever known.
Like all things, I think virtual treatment has its pros and cons. On the one hand, there’s a lower barrier to entry for those who are contemplating treatment. The flexibility of attending lectures and group therapy remotely worked with with my busy schedule.
On the other hand, I think it’s more difficult to make personal connections with others when all your interaction is done online — and so much of the AA program is about community and personal connections. What helped me was making an extra effort to meet others for (socially-distanced) coffee and to call others in the program.
What is recovery like?
Recovery has been an amazing journey. I’m healthier, happier, clearer-minded, and more present. I still have moments throughout the day when I feel irritable, restless, or discontent, but I’m learning to be more aware of it, address itself, and move on with my day. Overall, I’m in a much better place.
What would you tell people still struggling with addiction?
You’re not alone. Be kind to yourself and ask for help. When you’re in the program, keep an open mind, listen, and follow the advice of others — recovery is a well-worn path by millions before you. Talk with others in the program and share during group therapy — community and personal connections are the bedroom to this program.
