Amber Portwood, reality star on the show Teen Mom, was recently sentenced to five years in jail – a choice she made rather than opt for the judge’s other offer, drug addiction treatment. Why did she do it? Portwood says that drugs are too easy to get in rehab and that her best bet for staying clean and sober was to go to jail.

Drug Addiction and Dependency

It was a felony drug possession charge that put Portwood in front of the judge in the first place. In December of 2011, she opted for drug treatment when given the option but was unable to remain clean and sober. She was picked up again in May for failing to comply with the drug tests and released days later – just to turn herself in a few days after that. When she found herself in front of the judge again, she decided to take the jail sentence rather than return to rehab, saying she believed it would increase her chances of avoiding drug abuse.

Portwood recently spoke to ABC News about her drug addiction issues. She said: “I took 30 Suboxone within three days. The depression took over. I’d just take four to five at a time underneath my tongue, and nod out.”

Mental Health Problems Were an Issue

In many cases, drug addiction coincides with mental health problems. In fact, about half of all patients who seek treatment for addiction also require treatment for a mental health disorder like depression, anxiety, eating disorders and other issues. For Portwood, the combination of the two was almost overwhelming.

Said Portwood: “I had more than addiction problems. I had, you know, mental problems, too. I had been at such a low point, I couldn’t go any lower. There’s nothing lower than trying to kill yourself. That’s why it’s probably hard to understand why I did what I did. But when you mentally know that, you’re not right. You’re 22, and you tried to take your life twice. And you’re 22, and you’re still here, you don’t want to mess that up.”

Making Good Choices

Many were shocked that Portwood chose to go to jail, especially since she has a small daughter, but she says she’s just trying to make good choices for herself. She says she wants to get her GED and take advantage of any classes they offer in jail in an effort to better herself so that she is better prepared to get a job when she gets out. Her hope is to find the positive in the situation – a good start for anyone in recovery.

If someone you love can’t seem to stop relapsing and needs real help to fight a chronic drug and alcohol addiction, we can help. Contact us today to find a drug rehab program that can open the door to a life in recovery. Call now.