Local Rehab Center Reacts To Charlie Sheen's Comments

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Charlie Sheen's harsh words about drug rehab programs and Alcoholics Anonymous have some people concerned about the message he's sending to millions of people.

"There are thousands of people in the Pittsburgh area everyday struggling with their own addictions and he's not a good role model," said Neil Capretto, medical director at Gateway Rehabilitation Center.

Sheen has said in televised interviews that rehab is ruled by losers and that he cured his problems with his mind.

Capretto says it would be irresponsible for him to try to diagnose whatever Sheen may be dealing with, but he hopes that Sheen's comments won't discourage people with addiction issues from seeking help.

"Trying to overcome it on your own, especially in a severe state, is like being up to your neck with quicksand and trying to get out without help," said Capretto.

Capretto also says Sheen's claim that he last used "seven gram rocks" of cocaine is more than troubling.

"That's incredible amount," Capretto said. "First of all, I question is that even true? It's possible, but that puts you in about the upper one percent of cocaine users, so that's literally like playing Russian roulette."

Capretto says that in general, successful people can be more difficult to reach for treatment. He says they've seen successful doctors and attorneys who believe the rules don't apply to them because of all that they have achieved. He says as a result, they often stay in denial longer.

As for Sheen's approach of quitting by himself, Capretto says he doesn't advise it. "There's on old saying, 'You have to reach bottom' and for some people death may come before their bottom."