12-Step Program’s Essential Benefits in Treatment
Most modern rehabilitation institutes implement various 12-step based programs into their treatment plans as a both viable and proven method of recovery. Through these programs, such as AA(Alcoholics Anonymous), NA(Narcotics Anonymous), CA(Cocaine Anonymous), or CoDA(Codependency Anonymous) long term sobriety has seen to be achieved based on a concept of giving up one’s own will, looking at themselves internally in new ways, and working with others in a humbling and service-oriented manner. Simple maintenance of abstinence is found to be nearly impossible for the true addict or alcoholic, as their addiction has been impossible to break on the ‘power’ of their own will and methods, therefore he or she must seek outside help from a power greater than, and other than themselves, and begin to look within.
There are many who are opposed to this idea, and opposition to such ideas, according to history and studies show that relapse will inevitably follow if reliance on self-will is reverted to. For many, accepting responsibility for one’s own alcoholism and addiction looks like trusting in something greater than or other than themselves to achieve long-term sobriety, and this is a process we help to introduce our clients to and guide through at Level Up Palm Beach County. Through work in a 12-step program we have seen incredible success, long-term sobriety, homes and families come back together, and individuals changing their entire lifestyles so as to create a life beyond their wildest dreams.
A significant population of the world has been drastically affected by drug abuse. Most governments and private organizations have put in place institutions to help in drug addiction rehabilitation. The 12-step program is a very effective spiritual program used in the recovery process which guarantees long-term sobriety by its consistent practitioners. It is geared towards empowering the recovering individual to introspection and taking responsibility for their own outcome in life.
12-Step Recovery Program: Alcoholics Anonymous
The good news is that 12-step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) can be found all around the world, and they are of zero cost to the attendee or member. They are comprised of people in recovery from addiction supporting each through sponsorship, friendship, camaraderie, and group meetings. People from all backgrounds and all religions can join AA: The only requirement being a desire to stop drinking (or using drugs). A core principle of 12-step recovery groups is to admit that one does not have control over drinking habits and that some form of help is needed. Individuals can then look to a power greater than themselves of their own understanding to help them get their healthy lives back, or even better, to recreate their lives better than ever before. The concept of a higher power is different for different people depending on their religious or personal beliefs.
These AA meetings are held in public settings such as religious or spiritual centers and schools and they are often open to all members of the public. AA is self-sustaining off of its own contributions, and there are no dues or fees for membership, or for joining AA. In addition to the 12-steps of AA, there are 12 traditions that guide members and connect each other. They include, but are not limited to: The 12-Step Recovery Programs common welfare must be prioritized, members only need have a desire to quit drinking, the fellowship should continue being a non-professional entity, and this 12-Step Recovery Program should not holding any opinions on external issues, Every group is self-sustaining, and the primary purpose of every one of the groups is to help alcoholics get sober and carry the message to other alcoholics to do the same.
There are additional treatment options for alcoholism or addiction beyond 12-step groups, including drug therapy and counseling. Therapy offers a person suffering from alcoholism alternative ways to deal with stress and to respond to other issues in their lives. Sometimes, individuals need more than one treatment method, and it is advised to choose a 12-step program for spiritual foundation, and supplement with treatment methods that are specific to your needs.
Additional matters may want to be addressed, such as observing good nutrition, so as to help individuals to deal with harmful effects of alcohol such as excessive weight gain or loss. Different treatment methods have their unique advantages and they may not always work for everyone.
