Letter from the Director
The Disease of Addiction
It is not a moral issue. It is not a sin. It is a disease that is more complex and damaging than any other. It effects and destroys even the most religious of families. It causes problems for the addict who suffers by destroying the very fiber of their being. Guilt and toxic shame destroy the addicts self esteem and as much as they would like to "get it right", it feels hopeless and the addict then feels unworthy of any good thing that may come their way. The family becomes depressed, hurt, and confused. This disease knows no boundaries.
We at The Ark understand these feelings. We honestly believe that addicts do not drink or drug because they think it is fun. It is about medicating the pain from deep within. The Ark is a dual-diagnosis residential treatment facility. We treat not only the addiction, but the mental health issues, such as depression, bi-polar disorder, borderline personality disorder, etc…
The need for understanding and education of the disease is critical. Here in Utah, research has identified the protein that causes the disease of addiction. The research on the brain and organic disorders caused from substance abuse has also been researched and medication and treatment have proven successful. We are pleased with our high success rate of recovery.
I am in recovery for over 18-years. I want to express to you that life can be and is worth living. It is not hopeless. Many addicts feel shame and think they have no core value systems left. This simply is not true. We all have value and worth. God loves us. Although this is not about religion, it is about spirituality and we must find the inner core that tells us we are worth it and count on our higher power to help us through this most trying time in our lives. Please come and experience the finding of ones-self with us. Recovery is the most natural high and greater than you can possibly imagine. There are many wonderful blessings waiting for you.
Gloria Boberg, LSAC
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