Chronic Illness Vs. Addiction

Maia Szalavitz notes that despite the picture David Sheff presented of his son's problems,

Methamphetamine addicts have relapse rates no worse—and no better—than for those of any other drug.

...Research has consistently shown one-year abstinence rates from all addictions following treatment at about 40-60%, with an additional 15-30% having some relapses but not returning to chronic daily use. This is actually slightly better than for other chronic illnesses which require lifestyle changes for successful outcomes, like diabetes and hypertension. The prognosis is more positive for people of high socioeconomic status, with college educations and with strong family support.