Traditionally, 12-step programs have been the most acceptable and widely used method in controlling addictions. Alcoholics Anonymous created the program in 1938 to assist people in overcoming alcoholism. However, since its inception, this recovery program has been adapted to address multiple forms of substance use disorders, as well as dependencies such as gambling. 

This recovery program is foundational to treating addiction, as it provides a structured and straightforward path to recovery. It supports people in their journey. It instructs individuals on identifying and managing temptations and triggers that threaten progress.

What are the 12 steps?

The traditional 12 steps to recovery, according to the Big Book, created by Alcoholics Anonymous, are: 

1. Admitting the person is powerless over alcohol and, as a result, their lives are unmanageable.
2. Belief that a greater power can restore the person to sanity.
3. A decision to turn their will and lives over to God according to their understanding and definition.
4. Searching themselves and taking a moral inventory.
5. Admitted to themselves, God, and others the nature of the person’s wrongs.
6. A willingness to have God remove character defects.
7. Humbly asking God to remove shortcomings.
8. Created a list of those harmed and a willingness to make amends.
9. Make amends whenever possible, except when doing so would harm others or themselves.
10.  Continually taking personal inventory when wrong and promptly admitting it.
11. Through meditation and prayer, people can improve by contacting God as they understand, and praying to have God reveal His will and the power to carry it out.
12. Receiving spiritual awakening from these steps, the person attempts to carry the message to others experiencing the disorder and the continual practice of these principles in daily life.

While God and belief in a higher power are central to the Alcoholics Anonymous 12 Steps, over the years, many secular variations of this program have been created, with steps that deemphasize the role of God and prayer. 

The Benefits of 12-Step Programs

12-step programs generate spiritual and emotional guidance through recovery. They emphasize surrendering to a higher power while obtaining peer support from those who have undergone similar struggles. The reasons why such programs remain successful can be attributed to the following points.

1. Generate clear goals and structure for sobriety

12-step programs offer a structured recovery plan for success. The first step begins with the person admitting they are powerless over their addiction. A sponsor works with them through the steps when needed. The purpose of the steps is to discover the motivations for addictions.

The program guides people in identifying thoughts, risk factors, and behaviours that can potentially trigger a relapse. It forces people to become more self-aware. Individuals are encouraged to develop a coping strategy when dealing with cravings, triggers, and additional substance abuse issues.

Additionally, it encourages people to apologize to those impacted by their addiction and obtain a spiritual awakening, allowing them to develop integrity, humility, and a desire to help others. People complete a personal inventory of issues related to their addiction so they remain accountable.

Where people with addictions often struggle is dealing with unstructured time. Unstructured time is dangerous for those in recovery as it can lead to boredom, anxiety, restlessness, and cravings. Meetings alleviate these emotions and prevent relapse.

2. Sober community

Community and support from those who understand what an individual is experiencing is the most considerable advantage of this program. Strong (sober) networks predict successful long-term recoveries that many struggle to attain after completing rehab. In too many cases, old friends may still be involved in addiction, making it difficult to make new friends and to remain sober.

A 12-step program bridges the gap and creates a safe space for people to connect while maintaining sobriety. People tend to feel heard and understood and open up more when they think they are not judged or condemned. It offers a chance to generate strong relationships with those who understand what it is like to battle addiction.

3. Sense of accountability and support

When people enter the program and remain, they are paired with a sponsor who provides a strong support system. A sponsor is someone who is doing well in the program and is grounded in a sober lifestyle. They can offer helpful advice and accountability during a person’s darkest moments.

Sponsors are there for people to offer emotional support and guide them through recovery. Participants are always encouraged to attend weekly meetings where they can share experiences while surrounded by accepting and understanding people. The self-discipline and accountability of these programs reduce relapse, which is the program’s primary objective.

4. Emphasis on support and spiritual help

Spiritual help and support are emphasized throughout the program when dealing with addiction. Individuals are encouraged to create a deeper connection with a higher power. It assists them in generating a sense of acceptance and hope while recovering.

Social support benefits people by:

• Increasing optimism.
• Broadening overall perspectives to include considering others.
• Creating a sense of purpose.
• Counteracting negative stigma and views regarding addiction.
• Assisting with long-term recovery.

5. Empower people to be responsible for recovery

Individuals must take ownership and responsibility for their addictions. The program assists in helping people realize they are not powerless against addiction but are active participants in their recovery. This empowerment gives individuals the strength and can-do attitude to overcome addiction positively.

6. Easily accessible

These programs are readily available and easy to access from any location. Meetings are held in many cities and online, permitting people to connect with similar individuals globally. This ease of access eliminates excuses for not participating and offers a convenient tool.

7. Low cost or free

This program operates voluntarily. It is free or requires only a small donation. Since it is accessible, many people can use this service independently of their finances.

Contact Hope Be The Cure to Assist in Your Recovery Program

When searching for a recovery program for addictions, Hope Be The Cure takes a holistic approach to your healing. We are a leading rehabilitation facility located in Ontario.

We aim to help people revitalize, recover, and align their bodies, minds, and souls into a healthy balance. Our team offers many services addressing our clients’ diverse requirements to ensure each person receives compassionate and thorough care.

To book an appointment or learn how we can help you on your journey, call us at 844-635-4673, email us at info@hopebethecure.com, or complete our online form.