The 12-step program is one of the oldest addiction treatment models. It’s deeply tied to religion, but many non-religious and religious people alike benefit from the 12 step program. It was originally designed by the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, but has now been adapted into many addiction programs, from gambling and debt to narcotics and gaming addiction. The 12 Steps’ aim is to help people break free of their addictions through accountability, support, and community.
A reliable 12 step program implements the whole process and makes it easy for you to understand how to complete each step. You should also feel comfortable during the process so you can complete each step without fear of judgment or retaliation.
Here are the 12 steps of the approach
- Admitting powerlessness over the addiction
- Believing that a higher power (in whatever form) can help
- Deciding to turn control over to the higher power
- Taking a personal inventory
- Admitting to the higher power, oneself, and another person the wrongs done
- Being ready to have the higher power correct any shortcomings in one’s character
- Asking the higher power to remove those shortcomings
- Making a list of wrongs done to others and being willing to make amends for those wrongs
- Contacting those who have been hurt, unless doing so would harm the person
- Continuing to take personal inventory and admitting when one is wrong
- Seeking enlightenment and connection with the higher power via prayer and meditation
- Carrying the message of the 12 Steps to others in need
What to expect at your first 12 step meeting
Once you enter the program, you’ll be given instructions on how to complete the 12 steps. You may also be assigned a sponsor, or someone who will help you follow through each of the steps and be there if the urge to drink or use drugs comes on.
You should also be OK with sharing your story, although it’s not a requirement to speak at meetings. Meetings are a safe place to open and share and others may expect you to contribute to the meeting with personal experiences.
Is a 12 step program good for me?
The 12 step program has been efficient for years. It’s ideal for people wanting to break any addictive or obsessive behavior. Addicts from all walks of life have benefited from the 12 step program for decades.
All of the steps are daunting, but you don’t have to follow each step. You can linger at one step for some time, and then decide to move on as you feel comfortable. You may have to revisit a previous step, too. The goal is for you to complete each step at some point during your road to sobriety.
How to begin a 12 step program
When you’re ready to start, contact Skyward Recovery Addiction Treatment Center. We’ll help you complete the first step, which is getting enrolled in our addiction treatment program. We’re here 24/7. Simply complete the online form or call (713) 835-4771 to get started.