The 12-step program is a cornerstone of the addiction recovery process for many people. It can provide much-needed guidance to those suffering from addiction and structure for people while holding them accountable in their journey to recovery. If you are interested in learning more about how the 12-step program can help guide you or a loved one on the path to recovery, contact The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® today at 855.773.0614.
What Is the 12-Step Program for Addiction?
The 12-step program has been around for decades and has been helping provide a community and supportive curriculum for those committed to sobriety. Since its inception, the program has undergone a wide range of developments that have led to its highly effective and community-driven values. Some of the main techniques that enable the 12-step program to be so effective include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Evidence-based guidance and advice
- Medications
- Community support
People suffering from addiction turn to these programs because of the proven effectiveness that this journey provides. As people progress through each step, they learn how to become more self-reliant while developing methods for cultivating discipline. They’ll also have an ability to find depth in other aspects of life that were lacking. This approach helps to re-direct addictions and uncover the root cause.
The Basics of the 12-Step Program
The basics of the 12-steps are as follows:
- Admitting your addictive tendencies
- Believing that help is available and beneficial
- Letting go of control and giving it to a higher power
- Taking personal inventory of your situation
- Admitting the wrings you have committed
- Being ready to heal
- Making a list of these wrongs and committing to healing them
- Contacting those that your addictions have hurt
- Seeking enlightenment and correction through meditation and personal accountability
Benefits of the 12-Step Program for Addiction
The 12-step program for addiction provides a range of benefits, including:
1. Community Support
One notable benefit that many people report as the main factor that helped them reach sobriety is the support of a community. When you know that there are others around you who struggle with similar issues can hold you accountable and create motivation for shared success. One of the most powerful tools available to you in a 12-step program is a sponsor. This person serves as your support system to whom you can reach out at any time, day or night. Addiction is a chronic disease, so having the line open to a sponsor is a powerful method for preventing sudden relapses and overcoming urges.
2. Structure
One of the key struggles of addiction is a lack of structure or a clear path forward. Drug addiction can cause severe mental fog and prevent good decision-making, even if there are good intentions. The 12-step program is able to help give people struggling with addiction a path to follow with simple, actionable steps to work on, one at a time.
3. Selflessness
The isolation and boredom that often result from addiction can make it difficult to see a reason for committing to sobriety. Being a part of the 12-step community and having others rely on you can help to re-invigorate people and give them a reason to stay committed and follow through with sobriety.
4. They’re Everywhere
Another great benefit of the 12-step programs is that they are everywhere. Nearly every city and town have a group and a chance to attend meetings. This makes it hard to have an excuse for not going, no matter where you are located.
Get Started at The Willows at Red Oak Recovery®
If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction, the addiction recovery experts at The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® can help you access all of these benefits and more. Reach out to our team today at 855.773.0614 to learn more about our options for recovery and guidance.
