SINCE CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY impacts substance abusers' families, friends, and society, many chemically dependent people undergo treatment not because they want to end their substance abuse but rather because their loved ones or the law requires it. Unfortunately, studies show that people who are forced into treatment do not do as well as those who seek treatment voluntarily. In fact, only about 20 percent of people forced into treatment stop abusing chemicals after being released from treatment, whereas about 50 percent of people who willingly seek treatment remain chemical free. Experts say the reason is that since substance abuse is deliberate, treatment is most effective when people want to stop using chemicals. Addiction expert Elizabeth Connell Henderson explains, "It is important to remember that there is an element of will involved in addiction. If you are willing, if you remain open to suggestions, you can make it."

Admitting the problem