Is it generally true that addicts won't get help until they've hit rock bottom?

[AO111]

I have an alcoholic friend that landed in the hospital about 3 years ago due to near alcohol poisoning from the all weekend bender they were on. After the hospital they went to rehab for 2 weeks then on to AA and counseling. Well my friend managed to hold it down and stay sober for 6 months but then went back to drinking. At first it was just here and there but naturally it has progressed over time. Now they are drinking every day, more on days when they don't have to work. Just the other day my friend mentioned that they drove after having a few knowing the consequences ( friend just got license back 2 years ago and got interlock taken out last year) They keep reassuring me it's okay and under control and they will never again let it get as bad as it was three years ago, but I just don't believe it. I've had a lot of experience with alcoholics and I think my friend will have to screw up royally (hit rock bottom) again because of alcohol before they will attempt abstaining again. I'm really worried and sad about it but there is really nothing I can do.

[AO111]

But he has always been a person that feels lonely and was living with his elderly Dad for quite a long time. Well his Dad recently passed from cancer so now he probably feels drinking is his "best and only friend" so to speak.

[AO111]

Sure 46

[LisaHarvey7]

I don't think I ever hit "rock bottom", because things for me could have certainly have gotten MUCH worse. But I hit where I was legitimately TIRED of bring tired and sick of being sick. I definitely think ultimately they have to be sick and tired of the lifestyle. Can I ask how old your friend is?

[AO111]

Right but was your life really really bad messed up because of your addiction and that's why you quit?

[PregNscared]

I know for me, I had to quit on my own terms, when I was ready. If someone forced me to quit, I probably would have done it twice as hard because I'm stubborn!

[AO111]

Also, this friend had told me the hospital basically sent them to rehab under the baker act so it sounds like to me it wasn't really their choice to quit drinking which I know an addict has to choose to stop and really want to for it to be successful.