Why 12-Step Programs Work for Recovering Addicts
Recovery from alcohol or drug addiction is a lifelong commitment. As they move through the recovery process, patients need continuing care and support to prevent relapse. Even years after primary care for substance abuse, the recovering alcoholic or drug addict, like ex-smokers who crave a cigarette when they smell tobacco, may struggle with intense cravings for a drink or the drug they abused. The challenges of everyday life can tempt recovering substance abusers to seek release in alcohol or drugs. The death of a loved one, divorce, job loss or any of the major upheavals of life can create unbearable stress and strain an individual’s resolve to remain sober. Twelve-step programs have proved remarkably effective in providing the continuous support recovering addicts need to maintain their commitment to remain sober.
The value of the 12-step program as a support system for staying sober is often introduced during the alcohol or drug abuse treatment process. It’s important for recovering addicts to recognize the importance of taking responsibility for their sobriety and committing themselves to continued recovery. Integrating 12-step meetings into their lives ensures continued recovery and peer support in all aspects of life as they learn to cope with life’s challenges without alcohol or drugs.
Adopted by many self-help organizations, the 12 steps and 12 traditions developed by Alcoholics Anonymous provide invaluable support in all aspects of a person’s life: family relationships, spirituality, social, medical, physical fitness, nutrition, vocational, educational, financial and legal. Each new member of a 12-step group is assigned an experienced member as a sponsor to provide individual support and assistance at any time of the day or night. Weekly meetings provide a forum for education, encouragement, sharing and problem solving. The focus is on accepting responsibility for one’s own addiction and recovery and supporting others facing the same struggle.
To find out more about 12-step programs and their use in recovery from alcohol and drug abuse, visit the Transitions Recovery website.
