Although alcoholism can be treated and long-term sobriety obtained, the recovered person must realize that they do not have the ability to control their alcohol intake after completing treatment. In other words, even if an alcoholic has been sober for a long time and has regained health, he or she remains susceptible to relapse and must continue to avoid all alcoholic beverages. "Cutting down" on drinking doesn't work; cutting out alcohol is necessary for a successful recovery.