A 12 step program for addiction is a spiritual support system that has been around for over eight decades. Meetings are a safe place for members to share their experiences, as well as learn from each other. Members of a 12-step program are mentors to others in the program. Although 12 step programs are not mandatory, it is often a requirement for clients who have undergone treatment. After attending meetings, participants learn to be productive members of society.
Alcoholics Anonymous first introduced the 12-step program in 1935. The group was founded by Bill Wilson and Dr. Rober Holbrook Smith (also known as Dr. Bob Smith) who wanted to provide a way for people to overcome alcoholism and other addictive behavior. While meeting at the Oxford Group, these two men realized that they needed to support each other and the community. As their meetings grew, they incorporated a variety of alternative forms of therapy to aid in their recovery.
Often, individuals feel shy or uncomfortable attending meetings. Often, these groups are run by veterans who are willing to answer newcomers’ questions. Meetings also help members improve their social skills, and many programs hold home visits for those who can’t attend meetings. However, if you’re still shy or insecure about attending meetings, try donating time or money to help set up the meetings. And don’t be afraid to share your experience.
While most 12-step meetings are similar, they vary widely. Meetings usually consist of a discussion about one of the twelve steps, personal recovery stories, reading of twelve-step literature, and prayer. It may be easier to attend multiple meetings at the start of your recovery, but if you’re still struggling, you may need to attend several meetings every week. If you’re not able to commit to daily meetings, you can always start a 12-step group online.
One of the main goals of a 12-step program is self-acceptance. Admitting that a person has a problem is a huge relief, because it allows one to overcome the pain of living with a disease that no longer serves their purpose. It also makes it easier for people to feel supported and understood. If you’re looking for a 12-step program for addiction, you might consider inviting friends or family members to come along to support you and your journey.
Another goal of a 12-step program is repairing social harm. During Step Nine, individuals commit to repairing social harm that they’ve caused. This process may involve in-person apology, efforts to fix the harm, or even asking for forgiveness. The steps are not always easy, however, and recovering addicts may have to face the harsh reality that they’ve caused damage to others. However, they must always make the effort to mend whatever harm they may have caused.
The twelve step program for addiction is a valuable support system for people who have overcome an addiction. It is important to note, however, that 12-step recovery isn’t a cure for substance use disorders. It is best to seek medical treatment and therapy for your addiction, as well as other forms of support. When selecting a 12-step program, the treatment provider and the individual seeking treatment should discuss the various options. This way, they can decide if it’s the right program for you.
Step one of the 12-step program emphasizes the fact that addiction is a chronic disease, which steals control of the individual’s health. Step two, on the other hand, represents a hopeful stage for the potential recovery. The steps in Step Two often mention a higher power, such as a higher self, which can be internal or external, and is larger than the individual. The goal is to recognize that the disease itself can’t be cured, and instead, needs to be treated.
The 12 Steps are a spiritual path to recovery. Some 12-step programs refer to a “higher power” and will often use terms like “God” or a “Higher Power.” This approach is helpful, however, if you don’t consider yourself religious. You don’t have to be religious to benefit from the 12-step program, and there are many non-religious 12-step organizations that do exist.
Step Seven asks recovering persons to take stock of their past behaviors that may have triggered their disease. This is often done by completing a list of those who have been harmed. The 11th step is an exploration of the higher power’s plan and helps the person find out if he has made any amends or not. If these actions are not enough, the 12 Step program may not be a good choice for them.
