Addiction is a complicated disease that takes constant work to overcome and stay sober. We all know the importance of going through a treatment program in order to get sober. Addiction doesn’t end once a person goes through treatment, which is why there are a number of programs out there to continue the recovery process and support those with an addiction as they try to stay sober. One of the most common types of programs is known as a 12-step program. There are 12-step programs of all types, and they can be found in just about every city in America for those struggling with addiction to take part in.
Unfortunately, not everyone knows what a 12-step program is, what they do, and how impactful they can be to the recovery process. My Recovery Source is here to find those struggling with addiction the treatment and support they need. Part of our service is matching clients with 12-step programs that will help them continue their recovery and stay sober.
Every little bit of help can make a difference between whether a person with an addiction relapses or stays on the path of sobriety. Utilizing the right 12-step program can be a huge step for a person who is still struggling even after treatment.
My Recovery Source is a service to help you find the best rehab near you.
What is a 12-Step Program?
A 12-step program is an addiction recovery program that focuses on helping those in recovery manage their behaviors and compulsions through a series of steps that are not only aimed at promoting sobriety and teaching coping mechanisms to deal with addiction but also learning to heal the damage that was caused by addiction. Though each addiction is different, the mechanisms by which addiction works are the same, people are compelled to abuse a substance or perform a behavior, and these impulses are what continue the addiction, even despite negative consequences.
Since their inception, there have been a number of new and different 12-step programs that have been started, and now it is possible to find a 12-step program for any type of addiction that a person has, from alcohol, to substances, gambling, and more.
What Are the 12 Steps?
The twelve steps vary slightly depending on the program that a person enters, but the core values and principles have stayed the same. The twelve steps focus on recognizing past actions resulting from a person’s addiction.
From recognizing and admitting a person’s actions, the steps work towards acceptance of those actions, knowing that addiction was the root of their problems, and coming to terms with the fact that they are powerless over their addiction. Next, the steps help the person recognize what they can change and identify those they have hurt. Once they have taken steps to accept their actions, they can begin the process of making amends to those they have hurt.
This teaches acceptance, accountability, the ability to move past one’s addiction and move forward with a better mindset and the ability to recognize and change harmful behavior.
What Are Examples of 12-Step Programs?
The most common example of a 12-step program is alcoholics anonymous. AA is the first organization to have a 12-step program. From that one program has sprung dozens of others. Another common program that millions have been helped by is Narcotics Anonymous. There are many others, such as gamblers anonymous, for gambling addictions, and there is a program for just about any other addiction you can think of.
Added to that is the fact there are separate support programs for family members of those with addictions. The most famous is Al-Anon, a subgroup of alcoholics anonymous for the partners of loved ones of alcoholics. Many groups have formed with similar goals and missions beyond just the standard 12-step program, meaning that the right option for you is out there.
How to Find 12-Step Programs Near You
If you’re ready to find a 12-step program to help you with your addiction recovery, My Recovery Source is here. Our assessment program will help you find the right 12-step program for your addiction. Contact My Recovery Source to find the top addiction treatment centers to fit your needs.
