Many circumstances and conditions can actually lead to alcoholism, compounding something that can already be a burden on someone. In the case of depression, a person is already burdened by low self-esteem, loss of interest and hopelessness. As an escape, this person may turn to alcohol to numb the pain and sadness. Unfortunately this creates two problems which are hard to diagnose and treat. An alcohol rehab center will be equipped to diagnose and treat separate conditions at the same time, and help return the addict to a life that is less burdened by dependence.

When confronted, most alcoholics vehemently deny addiction. Their denial is so deep-seeded that they wont face the shock, embarrassment and reality of having their dirty secret exposed. While a coerced event where the addict is forced to face family, friends and coworkers, seems incredibly intrusive, its one of the most effective ways of getting the person to unlock his or her denial. The intervention has to be a prepared effort involving loved-ones who are committed to see it through regardless of the effect. They have to be ready for many obtuse reactions from the alcoholic including violent anger, retreat into depression or refusal to change. However, for those who have faced pain and heartache for years with the user, this is the end of the line and the burden is lessened as a group force.

At rehabilitation centers part of the education involves discussion that the alcoholic crosses another line. There is a transition in rationale from the solution: alcohol, diminishing the source of the problem: work, marriage, etc., to the solution actually becoming the problem. For instance, if a persons career hits a rocky stretch and unrealistic demands are being placed continuously, the solution is having a few drinks after work, next progressing to a few discreet drinks during the day to get through a meeting, and then it spirals out of control. When the employee can no longer get through the day without the crutch of a drink, the solution of alcohol becomes the problem. During counseling and rehabilitation, trained professionals help the alcoholic train a light on this pattern, illuminating how the boundary is crossed from one solution turning into the actual problem.

The process of recovery will be like trying to escape a spider web; sometimes finding release from a strand and then getting bogged down in another strand. The negative feelings of being confronted by family and friends wont quickly be erased. But eventually, with acceptance and treatment, some semblance of a peaceful life will resume in the home. Like a web, alcohol dependence can be woven in an intricate pattern and rehabilitation may not be as simple as admitting one has a problem.

A key part of alcohol rehab is assisting the addict to recognize their negative impact on those around them, and urging them to admit they need help. Even though an intervention may feel more like an interrogation to the focal point, the user needs to know they are surrounded by a support group of loved-ones.