During this past summer, I did an internship at the Betty Ford Center, a rehabilitation facility in Palm Springs, and the most important statistic that I learned there was that over 70% of patients in rehabilitation eventually relapse within 90 days. It’s staggering to know that addiction will never be treated after a few weeks. Instead, it is a constant struggle for patients to realize that a simple pill cannot cure their disease.

In the summer of 2013, Josh Hamilton signed a five-year $125 million contract with the Angels, signaling his arrival as a preeminent player. But his contract was merely a psychological blanket over his real problem: cocaine and alcohol.

Hamilton has a well-documented history of substance abuse dating to his days in the minor leagues. In fact, Hamilton was suspended from February 2004 to June 2006 related to his alcohol and cocaine addiction.

In light of the steroid scandal, the MLB tests its’ players regularly for banned substances. Despite having supposedly used cocaine one-time in the offseason, Hamilton reported his relapse to the league, much to the saddening of his former and current teammates.

But perhaps his admission to the league is the beginning of his recovery. “We admit we were powerless over alcohol-that our lives had become unmanageable.” These words are the tenets of the first step of recovery for Alcoholics Anonymous, and it is certainly in the mind of Josh Hamilton.

Relapse is common and remains the greatest obstacle for any addict. For all his wealth and prestige, Hamilton remains a person, like any other, capable of mistakes. His relapse is not a surprise for any psychiatrist. What is surprising that it didn’t happen sooner given his history. Perhaps it was the Los Angeles climate, his lackluster season, or the pressures of performing to the level of a $125 million contract. Regardless of the reason, Hamilton must realize that his disease will live with him forever.