He’s creating something of an excuse for his disgusting behavior in being drunk, too, as well as a way to avoid admitting guilt by claiming no memory. Look for a “confession” of a long standing, hidden problem with severe alcoholism to the point of blackouts in the very near future, at which point he’ll disappear into rehab.
I think you are exactly right. He'll hide out in a rehab for a while, then declare himself to be grateful for the help he's received as he tries to rebuild his life. Anyone who criticizes him at that point will be denounced as cruel and insensitive "after all he's been through" and should be supportive as he tries to make a fresh start.