How a 12 Step Program Leads to Recovery Success

The advent of 12 Step programs occurred in the late 1930s. The programs flourished, and continue to, in both treatment centers and in the community. Although they are not for everyone, many people who try a 12 step program swear it helped them throughout recovery. There are a variety of ways 12 step programs do this.

Addicts Helping Addicts

One of the core principles of 12 step programs is the shared narrative, often referred to addicts helping addicts. Proponents believe no one knows about addiction or can help an addict like another person who has a substance use disorder. They share a level of understanding that others do not. This level of individual understanding helps you to realize that you are not alone; there are others that share your experiences.

To find a recovery program that uses the addicts helping addicts philosophy, call 800-781-0748 (Who Answers?) . We can help you find a treatment center that uses a 12 step recovery program to help you to treat your addiction.

Community and Social Support

You will gain a support network and sense of community in a 12 step program.

You are never alone in a 12 step program. There are members and meetings all over the world that will help you in your time of need, and each of them provides a group of people who will become part of your support system.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 12 step recovery is recommended because it establishes a support network, which is integral to recovery; 12 step programs give you the network you need. This is especially important if you haven’t mended the relationships in your life that were damaged by your substance abuse.

Clear Steps Towards Recovery

Part of the success of 12 step programs is the steps themselves. They give an addict a clear vision of their path to recovery. Although support groups never claim to be a cure, they do provide a clear cycle that maintains sobriety and limits relapse.

When people reach the 12th step, they are prompted to continue their recovery activities and encourage others to do so as well. It is a process that does not have to end. It can be a lifelong endeavor or it can continue until you are back on your feet and have an independent support structure.

Daily Support

In a 12 step program, you get daily advice and support. Some people, particularly when they first start the 12 step process, need daily affirmations and meetings. Through daily meetings and 12 step literature, you can receive the care that you need when you need it.

There are meetings available at just about any hour of the day. It is also easy to find meetings wherever you happen to be. By starting the 12 step process in treatment you step onto a path that can be picked up anywhere.

One on One Support

According to the National Institute on Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse, the sponsorship aspect of a 12 step program is a form of one on one support. The sponsor is someone that you can call when you need help getting through a particularly tough moment or time. This can keep you on the road to success, no matter where you are or what you are doing. The sponsorship program gives you a confidant, even when you relapse or feel that you are about to.

Some treatment centers use 12 step programs in their overall treatment plan. You can find one by calling 800-781-0748 (Who Answers?) . We can help.

Winning Tactics for 12 Step Recovery