On the surface, you can probably understand why some people are still “on the fence,” so to speak, regarding the effectiveness of the 12-Step program. Many critics might argue that simply relying on the comfort of other addicts isn’t efficient enough for people suffering from hardcore addiction, who do require more attentive treatment for their sickness; or that one’s addictive patterns will shift from alcohol or drug use to other compulsive behaviors as a result of attending these kinds of programs. In some ways, this opinion does hold some truth…to an extent. People who suffer from severe cases of addiction do require immediate medical help, but let’s just say there’s a good reason why these programs work and continue to work. Let’s take a closer look at the selfless love of the 12-Step program.
Accept That You Have No Control
Simply put, the 12-Step program helps people follow a process that allows them to cope with their addiction problems and, equally important, immerse themselves in social circles comprised of people who are suffering from the same problem. As part of group meetings at the various programs, addicts are guided through the 12 steps of recovery (initially created by Bill W. and Dr. Bob, the creators of Alcoholics Anonymous), which are as follows:
- Admit that you are powerless over your addiction.
- Seek hope by confiding in a higher power.
- Allow this higher power to guide you through your life.
- Take an objective approach (moral inventory) to assessing your lifestyle and behavior.
- Share these results with another addict in your group or the higher power.
- Allow the higher power to remove all negativity.
- Ask this higher power to remove these negative thoughts and give you strength.
- Take notes of all the wrongs you have done to other people.
- Make up for those wrongs.
- Integrate this self-analysis and improvement of morals a part of your daily routine.
- Pray or meditate for continued recovery.
- Be there for other people who are suffering from addiction.
A List of 12-Step Programs
As presented on the website 12step.org, a variety of organizations branched off from AA and adopted the principles of Bob Smith and Bill Wilson. Here is a lineup of just a few of these groups:
- Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
- Cocaine Anonymous (CA)
- Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA)
- Marijuana Anonymous (MA)
- Sexaholics Anonymous (SA)
Seeking Treatment for Drug Addiction or Alcoholism
Alcoholism and drug addiction are dangerous sicknesses that should never be taken lightly. All it takes to fall off the wagon and become sick is to take that first sniff, snort, injection, or shot before you are rolling downhill into insanity. Still, you can always push the train back up, but it will be a difficult hike. However, with the right mixture of perseverance and determination, you can easily get back on track and be happy once more.
Are you suffering from a severe case of alcoholism or drug addiction? Do you have a friend or a loved one who is coping with the same illness? In both cases, get in touch us at with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of drug withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you are seeking more information about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
