A Brief Introduction to the 12-Steps
Despite AA and other 12-step programs being available as a treatment resource for almost 100 years, both lay people and mental health professionals are still unaware of the benefit of referring their clients, family, and friends to 12-step programs. However, those who actively practice a 12-step recovery model will be the first to tell you that these 12 steps are not merely tools for sobriety but also excellent guidelines for healthy living.
There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding 12-step programs. One common belief is that these programs are not anonymous and therefore not very effective. Critics often point out that some members cycle in and out of the program, trying and failing multiple times before achieving lasting recovery. Others claim that 12-step programs can seem "cultish" due to their recommendations for lifestyle changes—such as distancing oneself from addictive behaviors and harmful people, places, or things that negatively affect mental well-being. Additionally, some people argue that these programs rely too heavily on a belief in God.
AA is not a religious organization; the 12 steps offer essential guidelines for healthy living. The twelve steps can be grouped into four main categories.
Steps 1 – 3 address admitting that you have a problem and you need help to solve it and become willing to give up trying to control your substance/behavior.
Steps 4 -7 guide you through a thorough and honest self-examination, enabling you to come to terms with your past, learn patience and humility, and serve to help prepare you for steps 8 and 9.
Steps 8 and 9 are about making amends and repairing the damage you created with your friends, family, employers, etc.
The final three steps, 9 – 12, involve continued self-examination, helping others, and spreading the message to those in need.
“12-step meetings offer support without judgment, as members share their stories of experience, strength, and hope.”
AA is successful because the premise of intervention is based on members supporting each other, providing non-judgemental encouragement, and sharing their personal experiences. In addition, meetings are readily available in person, online, and over the phone at all hours of the day worldwide. One-on-one support is also available through the sponsorship aspect of the program.
Not only do studies demonstrate that clients who participate in both formal therapeutic options and 12-step group participation have significantly greater success remaining abstinent, but AA was also found to be more effective than psychotherapy alone in assisting individuals in finding long-term recovery.
“More than 40 self-help support groups based on the 12-step program model, which is a testimony to its success. ”
12-step programs do not provide therapy; the focus is on learning to live with your addiction or mental health illness. While self-help support groups may not be the right fit for everyone, they can often be an excellent supplement to other treatment modalities, especially when paired with intensive inpatient or outpatient therapy.
You can find more information about AA, literature, meeting locations, etc., at the AA website - www. aa.org
Afterward -
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