Boston, n.: An outdoor Betty Ford Clinic.

In recent events, a surprising usage of Boston as an 'outdoor Betty Ford Clinic' has surfaced amongst Massachusetts residents. This trend started among high income residents and celebrities seeking out discreet treatment options for substance abuse. While this may seem unusual at first, those who have experienced it firsthand say that the approach provides many benefits.

Boston's reputation for elite hospitals, universities, and cultural opportunities make it a premier destination for anyone looking for an escape from their current situation or environment. By capitalizing on these positive factors, substance abuse recovery programs are able to effectively promote their services and attract more clients through social media channels like Facebook and Twitter. Their marketing tactics were deliberate and intentional; they wanted people to know about the power of healing that can come from within the city itself.

Many attribute this newfound success to Mayor Marty Walsh’s policies, which have been instrumental in making downtown areas safer while simultaneously encouraging investment and growth within the area. Surprisingly enough, Walsh has been publically supportive of treatment being offered “in the heart of Boston”. He stated that "Addiction is an extraordinarily difficult disease to battle alone; we must do all that we can to help our friends and neighbors. The services in this program will save lives.” With his endorsement, the stigma associated with addiction is slowly starting to dissipate throughout the city.

One local resident shares her experience: “I was struggling with alcoholism, and I couldn't get any help where I lived — nobody believed me because everyone assumed that the only problem was me. That's when someone suggested I try it here. At first, I didn't believe them, but I gave it a shot anyway. What I discovered was that there was tremendous support available, not just from professionals, but from everyday citizens who cared enough to reach out and help others."

As word spreads, other cities are taking note and considering if they too could benefit from taking up a similar strategy. Afterall, with the right resources and support systems in place, perhaps people can find solace, understanding, and redemption in unexpected places… like Boston.