but everything I've seen and heard here indicates that full recovery is the exception.
Not true at all. First 'full recovery' means ongoing abstinence and working on one's self. That does happen a lot, and there are many on this particular forum that are DOUBLE WINNERS myself included, and recovery times from 4 years to almost 30 years. Recovery is for those that WANT it, and unfortunately just because an individual NEEDS recovery, it does not mean they WANT it yet.
However, the individual has to reach their own 'bottom' and that 'bottom' is different for each and every one of us.
Please go to Al-Anon and/or find a counselor that is 'experienced' with addiction.
J M H O
Love and hugs,