Involuntary Commitment: a Complex Journey through Rehabilitation

The journey through addiction rehabilitation is often fraught with challenges, both internal and external.

Introduction

My own path led me through a 30-month stint in a confrontational behavior therapy rehabilitation program, an experience that was both life-saving and deeply distressing. While I credit the program with helping me reach sobriety, I am also acutely aware of the abusive practices that were prevalent within its walls. Through this essay, I aim to provide a nuanced exploration of my experiences, the systemic issues within rehabilitation programs, and the potential for reform in the treatment of addiction.

The Reality of Involuntary Commitment

My journey began when I was placed under an involuntary commitment by the state of Colorado. Deemed a danger to myself and society due to my drug use, I was stripped of my rights as an independent adult, much like being on probation without committing a crime. This legal classification forced me into a non-profit long-term residential facility after multiple failed attempts at short-term rehabilitation programs. The involuntary nature of my commitment added a layer of complexity to my recovery process, as it was not solely driven by my own volition but by an external mandate.

Relapse and Consequences

Relapse is a common aspect of addiction recovery, yet in my program, it was met with severe consequences. After a relapse at 23 months, I was subjected to what is known as a "10/30" consequence—ten hours in time-out and 30 days wearing a stocking cap and faded scrubs. This punitive approach only compounded the shame and humiliation I felt, as I was isolated from my peers and forced to start over in the First Phase. The relentless cycle of earning consequences for minor infractions, such as sneaking food, created an environment of fear and anxiety rather than healing and support.

The House Game: A Culture of Peer Condemnation

One of the most troubling aspects of the program was the "House Game," a confrontational group therapy session where one individual was subjected to the collective outrage of over 130 peers. This practice, reminiscent of mob mentality, often targeted residents who had already experienced significant trauma, including sexual abuse. As someone who conducted intakes for the program, I felt a deep sense of guilt for recommending this facility to families, knowing the potential harm it could cause to vulnerable individuals.

Forced Catharsis and Peer-Led Therapy

The program's therapy model was predominantly peer-led, relying on residents with limited education to facilitate sessions that often delved into complex psychological issues. The confrontational nature of these sessions aimed to break down emotional defenses, but frequently resulted in psychological harm. I experienced both sides of this dynamic, as a victim and a perpetrator, and the impact on my mental health was profound. The lack of qualified professionals overseeing these sessions raised serious ethical concerns about the treatment methods employed.

Termination and Reflection

My time in the program ended abruptly six days shy of completion due to a minor infraction—throwing paintballs at another resident's car. This termination severed my ties with the support network I had built, highlighting the program's rigid and punitive structure. Reflecting on my experiences, I am struck by the commercialization of rehabilitation, where programs charge exorbitant fees for ineffective, cookie-cutter treatments. This business model prioritizes profit over patient care, perpetuating a cycle of readmission and failure.

Path to Advocacy and Reform

Despite the challenges I faced, the rehabilitation program served as a catalyst for personal growth and advocacy. I discovered the power of rhetoric and became an advocate for change within the program, submitting proposals to improve treatment practices. My experiences have fueled a desire to reform the way society views and treats addiction, informed by my studies in human services, psychology, sociology, and philosophy. Conclusion

The duality of my rehabilitation experience reflects the broader complexities within addiction treatment programs. While the sense of community and acceptance I found was invaluable, the abusive practices and systemic flaws cannot be ignored. As I move forward, my goal is to contribute to a more compassionate and effective approach to addiction treatment, ensuring that future programs prioritize healing and support over punishment and profit. Through education and advocacy, I hope to play a role in transforming the rehabilitation landscape for the betterment of all who seek recovery.

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