New beginnings for a new season. Josh Duggar has left rehab after spending six months at a faith-based treatment facility in Rockford, Illinois, the reality TV family announced on their blog on Thursday, March 10.
“Josh has completed his residential rehabilitation program,” the statement read. “We are so thankful for everyone who worked with Josh in this program. It was a crucial first step in recovery and healing for Josh. Josh has now returned to Arkansas, where he will continue professional counseling and focus on rebuilding relationships with his family. We look to God for help and guidance and place all of our trust in Him. We are forever grateful for the love and prayers offered by so many and hope you will continue to pray in the days ahead.”
Just last week, Duggar’s parents, Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, wished him a happy birthday via the family’s official Facebook page, noting that they always keep their eldest son in their thoughts.
“Today is our son Josh’s birthday. The heartache of the past year cannot surpass the joy 28 years ago on this day when we first became parents!” the parents of 19 wrote. “We love you Josh and believe your best days can be ahead of you. We continue to pray for you every day.”
2015 was a rough year for Josh in particular. In May, he made headlines when reports surfaced that he had molested five girls back in 2002 at the age of 14. Months later in August, the father of four checked into Reformers Unanimous after publicly admitting to cheating on his wife, Anna Duggar, after hackers posted stolen subscriber data from Ashley Madison.
“I have been the biggest hypocrite ever,” Josh said in a statement at the time. “While espousing faith and family values, I have secretly over the last several years been viewing pornography on the internet and this became a secret addiction and I became unfaithful to my wife.”
Since then, the family’s reactions to the scandals have been documented, particularly on Jill and Jessa: Counting On. Upcoming episodes from the reality series show the sisters spending time with Anna in particular. “Family is everything,” Jessa says.
A release from the show reads: “The Duggar family is on its way to finding a new normal.” Josh will not appear in the series.
Jill and Jessa: Counting On returns on March 15 at 9 p.m. EST on TLC.
