The 12 steps originated in the 1930s as a way for those struggling with alcohol abuse to find recovery. In the beginning, it was simply a few people in recovery, helping others. Today, the 12 steps have assisted millions of people worldwide in healing from addiction. Invented to assist those battling alcohol abuse, the 12 steps are now used to heal many addictions, including drugs, food, gambling, sex, and more. In general, 12-step recovery works for those who dedicate themselves to their sobriety and to being part of a supportive community.
Understanding 12-Step Recovery
The 12 steps begin with admitting powerlessness, and they end with a promise to carry the message forward. In between, participants make amends to those they’ve harmed. Additionally, they learn to lean on a higher power. Last, they commit to supporting others in times of crisis.
To fully grasp the effectiveness of a 12-step program, participants must fully adopt it. Consequently, they must work through each step honestly and to the best of their abilities. They must examine their own shortcomings and be willing to admit weakness and fault. They must come to realize that nobody is perfect, and everyone needs help occasionally. As a result, clients in a 12-step program learn to accept help and to offer it when needed.
How the 12 Steps Facilitate Addiction Treatment
As part of an addiction treatment program, 12-step recovery makes life more manageable from the beginning. Immediately, clients admit that they’re not the ones in control of their lives. They confess that something else, such as drugs or alcohol, is controlling them. As a result, they ask for help. Simply the act of reaching out can bring immense emotional relief. Then, knowing that there’s a higher power available to lean on and to trust makes those in recovery feel less isolated.
The 12 steps require participants to admit defeat and to call upon others for help. Accordingly, it then requires them to pay that help forward to others when they’re able. It’s an inclusive program that promotes social interaction and accountability — two core elements of recovery from addiction.
Beginning a 12-Step Program
Often, people begin working the 12 steps when they’ve reached their own personal low or rock-bottom. Consequently, this may happen after recovery from an overdose. It may occur after serving jail time for repeated DUIs. Or, it could come as the result of an intervention by friends and family members. Sometimes, participation is court-ordered. In this scenario, clients must undergo treatment to avoid going to jail.
However, there’s no reason to wait until addiction has negative consequences on your life to reach out for help.
It’s important to note that in order for a 12-step program to work, a client must honestly desire change. They must try their best. Last, they must actively work on each step as it’s presented to them.
12-Step Recovery at Atlantic Recovery Center
Atlantic Recovery Center, located in sunny South Florida, offers a high quality of care for clients who struggle with substance use disorder. Through our 12-step program and related forms of therapy, we help clients achieve lifelong sobriety.
Atlantic Recovery Center is a small, family-centric drug and alcohol addiction treatment center for those in the Florida area. With the latest addition of our seven-bed residential wing, we’re able to help clients ages 18 and up with the challenges and pitfalls of addiction recovery. Our treatment is gender-specific to treat men and women in separate programs, and it’s highly successful. If you or a loved one is interested in learning more about the 12-step program at Atlantic Recovery Center, visit us online today or call 1-866-824-5193. We’re waiting to help you regain a sense of control over your life, and the 12 steps can help you do so.