We at Fairwinds Treatment Center know the incredible toll that alcoholism can take on individuals and their loved ones, so we were saddened to learn that Elizabeth Vargas, ABC News anchor and mother of two, suffered a recent relapse in her sobriety. However, we were very glad to hear that she checked herself back into a rehabilitation facility upon realizing that she needed additional help.
"While on vacation this weekend, I decided to return to a recovery center. As so many other recovering alcoholics know, overcoming the disease can be a long and incredibly difficult process," Vargas said in a statement to the press. "I feel I have let myself, my co-workers and most importantly my family down and for that I am ashamed and sorry. I am committed to battling and addressing this debilitating disease and want to thank everyone who has offered their unwavering support during this trying time."
We have previously discussed on this blog Vargas' struggles with anxiety and addiction. She began having panic attacks when she was a very young girl after her father left to fight in Vietnam. Like many substance abusers, she used alcohol to try to manage her underlying psychological, mental and emotional issues. Unfortunately, too many addiction treatment facilities fail to address such problems, focusing instead only on dependency. However, since Dr. M.K. (Khal) El-Yousef founded Fairwinds Treatment Center in 1989, he has firmly believed that such an approach almost always results in a failed recovery. That's why he utilizes a unique dual diagnosis methodology, combining clinical treatment and therapeutic counseling to promote total healing.
If you or your loved one is struggling with addiction, know that you are not alone. Even if you have attempted recovery in the past and failed, there is hope! Contact Fairwinds Treatment Center to learn more.