Florida Congressman Trey Radel resigned from U.S. Congress on January 27th after a public battle with the disease of addiction. In November 2013, Radel pleaded guilty to cocaine possession after purchasing cocaine from an undercover law enforcement officer and was sentenced to one year probation. Radel sought drug rehab treatment for his addiction and remained in his position representing Southwest Florida until his resignation.
Although Radel was committed to remaining in the House of Representatives, he was the subject of an ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation and faced calls from House leaders to resign. Radel’s resignation leaves the 19th district of Florida without congressional representation.
Many politicians have openly struggled with addiction and alcohol abuse in the public eye. Some, such as Toronto Mayor Rob Ford are seemingly unable to cope with the disease and seek appropriate drug rehab treatment, while others such as former Congressman Patrick Kennedy find themselves firmly on the path to recovery after treatment.
Many people struggle with drugs and alcohol as a way to cope with workplace or familial pressures. Unfortunately for many people, addiction sneaks up on them and they don’t realize what is going on until the consequences become public.
Florida Drug Rehab Sees The Face of Addiction
Florida drug rehab centers see many people from all walks of life each year who struggle with the disease of addiction. Addiction treatment brings together people from all levels of society – no one is immune to the disease of addiction. While most clients are not as high-profile as Congressman Radel, many struggle with returning to the workplace and their families after treatment. It can be difficult to regain back the trust of colleagues and coworkers after a public struggle with drugs or alcohol. For many, it is even more difficult to regain the trust of their loved ones and rebuild relationships.
Resigning from his position as an elected official may give Radel the time he needs to focus on himself, his family and rebuilding trust in his life. He and his family may benefit from family therapy and counseling from a Florida drug rehab center that offers confidential and comprehensive addiction services. Many individuals and their families benefit from having open discussions about the addiction, the consequences and expectations for the future.
Although it is difficult to watch anyone suffer from the disease of addiction, recognizing the problem and addressing it is the only way to stop the cycle and regain your life. If you or someone you love is suffering from the effects of alcohol abuse, substance addiction or any other type of addiction, please call us today. Our addiction treatment counselors can help you deal with physical, emotional and psychological consequences of drug and alcohol abuse. A substance abuse treatment program is effective, safe and has helped many men reclaim their lives. Destination Hope is a full service drug, alcohol and dual diagnosis treatment facility in Florida for men suffering from substance abuse and mental health issues.
