Chris Groves

Meet Our Alumnus, Chris

Chris Groves graduated from addiction treatment at The Recovery Village Columbus. In a recent interview, he shared his recovery story, hoping to inspire others to seek the help they need: 

When did you realize you wanted to get treatment?

“In the fall, I found myself in full relapse mode for over 3 months. I was using every day, all day. Unlike times before, I was unable to stop on my own, even for a day. I knew at that point inpatient treatment was the only positive solution.” 

Why did you (or your loved one) choose our treatment center?

“The are a lot of options for treatment centers, and choosing the right one can really be a gamble. I have a close friend who has worked at many facilities around Central Ohio. I asked her what was the best treatment center locally, and she told me it was The Recovery Village (and she was working at another facility at the time!).” 

What part of your treatment was the most helpful?

“I have been in and out of recovery for almost 18 years. I would be what most would consider a chronic relapser. With one of the counselors, we really looked in-depth at each of my relapses over the years. While each relapse looked different on the surface, when we dug down, we found points at which they were all the same. 

Along the path to my relapses, I identified 3 big red flags: the first of which is disengaging and stopping attendance at 12-step meetings. These 3 red flags today are things I know will lead me to a relapse, and I know if I intervene at those points, the path to relapse is stopped. It has REALLY strengthened my recovery.” 

Who made the biggest difference in your recovery journey?

“There are so many — friends, family, coworkers, counselors and sober support — so I can’t really pinpoint one person. I like to say, “It takes a village to keep me sober.” Within The Recovery Village, I felt like they really cared about each client, from the counselors, BHTs, the administrators, even the cooks and custodial staff. It wasn’t a job but a passion for them. I don’t think you find that in most places.” 

How has your life changed after getting treatment at our center?

“So many ways. Today, I don’t feel like I’m holding onto a cliff, waiting to fall off into relapse. I’m a good worker, friend, brother and son again.” 

How would you encourage someone else who needs treatment?

“I used to ask the question, ‘Am I bad enough to do inpatient treatment?’ I should have asked, ‘How can inpatient treatment benefit me?’ I think they are fundamentally different questions. I underestimated how beneficial taking 30–60 days away from the world in a therapeutic environment is really a game changer for my long-term recovery.

Deciding to get treatment for a drug addiction is a really big decision. When I went in, I was really only 25% sure I wanted to stay sober for the long term. As I went through the process, each day, that percentage increased. Take that first step, even if you may not totally be up for recovery. You may be surprised how you feel by the end of treatment. I know I did.”