How 12-Step Works as Addiction Recovery Support?

Published on: 11 October 2018 Last Updated on: 31 October 2024
Addiction Recovery Support

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), around 74% of inpatient drug rehab centers in America are based on the 12-Step approach. 12-Step is a philosophy pioneered by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) in the 1930s that has strong foundations in Christianity.

The objective of 12-Step recovery programs is to enable people to achieve and maintain sobriety through the support of others and their belief in a higher power. In many respects, the 12-Step movement has been shown to be a force for good which is why it remains one of the most popular choices for addiction recovery support in the world.

12-Step treatment centers are not for everyone, particularly if they do not subscribe to any particular religion and their needs can be addressed by a wide range of alternative inpatient drug rehab centers that do not have religious components. However, in this article, we want to take a closer look at traditional 12-Step in terms of what it offers people with addiction illness and how the world’s oldest recovery support system works.

The History of the 12-Step Program:

The principles of 12-Step treatment centers were designed in 1938 by Bill Wilson, who based the concept on his own experiences and understanding of alcoholism. In particular, Wilson had seen how positively people struggling with alcohol responded when sharing their stories and experiences with others. In the early days of 12-Step’s history, Wilson put his program into writing into what is now known as the Big Book.

12-Step rehab centers originate from the Christian view of spirituality and are designed to provide encouragement for participants to seek help from a higher power than themselves. Although the Big Book was originally intended for people who did not want to attend meetings, it has since become a model for all NA and AA meetings around the world. Offshoots of 12-Step treatment centers now include Heroin Anonymous (HA) and Gamblers Anonymous (GA). These days, members are expected to “work through” the steps using the Big Book for reference.

How 12-Step Approach Works:

12-Step rehab centers are designed to allow people to support each other in achieving and maintaining sobriety while calling on their higher power for help. This is done through meetings in which members share their experiences, talking through difficult issues and congratulating successes. According to the journal Addiction Research and Theories, the kind of abstinence practice 12-Step is based on often accounts for high levels of positive mental health or “flourishing.”

A particular benefit of 12-Step is that it provides a structured framework from which people can surrender their addiction, process the experience and move on from it for improved mental health. An article by Psych Central suggests that following the 12-Step model arms members with the following tools for mental and emotional transformation:

  • Being able to recognize and admit that the individual has addiction issues
  • Surrendering to this fact and deciding to seek control with outer guidance
  • Developing self-awareness of addictive behaviors and how they impact others
  • Practicing self-restraint and building self-esteem
  • Achieving self-acceptance and being able to make positive changes
  • Having compassion for those affected by the individual’s addiction and others who are struggling with substance abuse

Through providing members with these experiences and tools, 12-Step can promote significant changes, helping individuals seeking to overcome addiction find a path to sobriety.

The 12 Steps, as outlined in the original Big Book are as follows:

  • The admission that the individual is powerless over their addiction
  • The belief that a higher power can help overcome addiction
  • Making the decision to surrender control to the higher power
  • Making a personal inventory
  • Admission to the higher power, themselves and another trusted person the wrongs that were done through addiction
  • Being prepared for the higher power to correct shortcomings in character
  • Asking the higher power for help in removing shortcomings
  • Listing the wrongs done to others and preparing to make amends
  • Connecting with all those hurt by addictive behavior to make things right unless it is detrimental to the person to do so
  • Maintaining a personal inventory and admitting when the person is in the wrong
  • Seeking enlightenment from the higher power through prayer and meditation
  • Sharing the 12-Step mess with others in need of support

Although there is no “one size fits all” approach to addiction treatment, the efficacy of 12-Step is undeniable. The main reason for the program’s success is that it focuses on providing mutual support as a means of achieving and maintain sobriety. The 12-Step recovery program shifts focus from the individual and their addiction to the group as a whole, with members bound together by a common spirituality and a shared desire to live a substance-free life.

Read Also:

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

Effects Of Sleep Loss

Surprisingly Unknown Effects of Sleep Loss

We all know that lack of sleep can have a significantly negative impact on our daily lives as trouble focusing is often the most notable effect of sleep loss. However, there are several other less-known effects of sleep loss that you should also take into account. Surprisingly Unknown Effects Of Sleep Loss: 1. Sleep Deprivation Is A Public Hazard: Sleep deprivation can be a significant factor in automobile accidents as a lack of sleep will slow down your time reaction quite similar to that of drunk driving. If that’s not enough to stress the health advantages of a good nights sleep, lack of sleep has been a massive factor in some of the most monumental disasters in more recent history such as the nuclear accident in 1979 at Three Mile Island as well as the disastrous nuclear meltdown at Chernobyl in 1986. Considering the lack of sleep greatly increases your chances of being involved in a car accident and work-related injuries, you should take pride in formulating a suitable sleep routine to ensure you are not endangering yourself and those around you. 2. Increased Risk Of Developing Serious Health Issues: While chronic sleep disorders and sleep conditions will put you at an increased risk of developing serious health problems such as heart attack and cardiovascular conditions as well as high blood pressure, diabetes, and even stroke, the less serious health issues such as increased stress and anxiety are just as concerning. To improve the quality and consistency of your sleep you should consider whether or not your mattress is suitable for comfort and support. You can make use of mattress charts with a showcase of mattress sizes to better establish which mattress would be best for you. In addition to this, you should consider the benefits of natural sleep remedies, especially if you are battling to get enough sleep on a regular basis. 3. Risk Of Rapidly Aging Skin: Even though it’s commonly known that a restless night will result in dark under-eye circles and a bit of puffiness, not everyone is aware of just how much lack of sleep can cause rapidly aging skin. According to studies, regular sleepless nights will age the rate at which your skin ages and as a result, you will notice fine lines, wrinkles, and sallow skin. The benefits of beauty sleep are definitely not a myth. 4. Memory Loss: One of the best ways to keep your memory as sharp as possible is to get enough quality sleep as sleep deprivation has been a known culprit of memory loss. According to research conducted in 2009, brain functions referred to as “sharp wave ripples” are responsible for the consolidation of memory as these ripples are known to transfer learned information to an area of the brain where memory is then stored on a long-term basis. This brain function usually occurs while we are in the deeper levels of sleep, which means that quality sleep will, in fact, improve your brains' ability to store information and effectively prevent forgetfulness. Read Also: Ways To Sleep Well At Night As You Age How To Sleep Better When You Have Cancer Are You Wondering About The Risk Factors For Depression?

READ MOREDetails
When You Need To Go To A Chiropractor

When You Need To Go To A Chiropractor: Here’s What Experts Say

Visiting a chiropractor offers numerous advantages that can significantly enhance physical and emotional health. However, a common misconception is that people only seek chiropractic care when they're already in pain or can no longer bear discomfort. Many need to realize that a neck specialist singapore can play a crucial role in preventing these issues from arising in the first place. While most individuals associate chiropractic care with addressing back pain, it's essential to be aware of other indicators that may prompt a visit to a chiropractor at your nearest local wellness center. Signs You Should See A Chiropractor Chiropractic care is often associated with back pain relief, but its benefits go far beyond that. Chiropractors are trained to address various musculoskeletal issues and can help improve your overall well-being. While back pain is a common reason to visit a chiropractor, numerous other signs and symptoms can indicate you should seek their care. Let’s explore ten signs that you should consider making an appointment with a chiropractor. 1. Persistent Back Pain Experiencing relentless back pain indicates that consulting a chiropractor is a sensible and proactive step. Such pain can take on diverse forms, whether it's the nagging ache in your lower back, the discomfort in your upper back, or even the stiffness and unease in your neck area. The value of seeking a chiropractor's expertise lies in their capacity to provide non-invasive, natural treatment options that not only relieve your pain but also significantly contribute to the overall improvement of your mobility and physical health. The persistence of back pain can be incredibly disruptive to your daily life. It can hinder your ability to perform routine tasks, affect your mood, and diminish your overall quality of life. Whether your discomfort is rooted in a specific incident, like an injury, or the result of prolonged stress and poor posture, chiropractors are adept at getting to the bottom of the issue. Chiropractic care is centered on the principle that proper spine and musculoskeletal system alignment is crucial for maintaining good health. This alignment promotes optimal nerve function and the free flow of vital energy throughout the body. By pinpointing and addressing misalignments or tension in your spine, a singapore chiropractor can offer you effective, non-surgical solutions to tackle the root causes of your back pain. 2. Chronic Headaches Frequent headaches are a common complaint that can often be traced back to tension and stress within the neck and spine. This connection between the musculoskeletal system and headaches is crucial to chiropractic care. Chiropractors employ a variety of techniques and adjustments to address these issues, ultimately leading to a reduction in both the frequency and intensity of headaches. What's particularly appealing about chiropractic care is that it provides relief without needing medication, which can sometimes bring unwanted side effects and dependency concerns. Headaches, whether tension headaches, migraines, or other types, can significantly disrupt your daily life. They can lead to discomfort, sensitivity to light and sound, and even nausea. This is where chiropractic adjustments come into play. By targeting the root causes of your headaches, which might involve misaligned vertebrae or muscle tension, chiropractors work to correct these issues and promote a healthier, pain-free existence. 3. Limited Range Of Motion If you've become aware of a decline in your ability to move your arms, legs, or neck as freely as you used to, it could indicate an underlying problem. In such cases, turning to a chiropractor can be a wise decision. Chiropractors are skilled at pinpointing the root causes of mobility issues and are well-equipped to employ strategies to help you regain your full range of motion. Diminished mobility can significantly affect your daily life and overall well-being. It may lead to discomfort, limitations in your physical activities, and even impact your quality of life. Chiropractors understand the intricate relationship between the musculoskeletal system and your mobility and specialize in addressing these concerns. When you visit a chiropractor for mobility issues, they will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the precise causes of your limitations. This often involves a physical examination, discussions about your medical history, and perhaps even diagnostic imaging like X-rays. The chiropractor can develop a tailored treatment plan to restore your full range of motion by identifying misalignments, muscle imbalances, or other musculoskeletal issues. 4. Frequent Muscle Stiffness Muscle stiffness often indicates that there might be issues with the alignment of your musculoskeletal system. When your muscles feel tense and unyielding, it can indicate that something isn't quite right within your body's framework. This is where the expertise of chiropractors becomes invaluable, as they are well-equipped to address this problem and promote improved muscle flexibility. Stiff muscles can be more than just a discomfort; they can impact your daily life and overall well-being. This sensation can limit your range of motion, hinder physical activities, and even lead to pain and discomfort. Chiropractors deeply understand how the body's structure and function are interconnected, and they specialize in addressing these specific concerns. When you turn to a chiropractor with muscle stiffness complaints, they critically evaluate your condition. This typically includes a detailed physical examination, discussions about your medical history, and any relevant diagnostic procedures like X-rays if necessary. 5. Poor Posture Poor posture is a common culprit behind a myriad of health problems and physical discomfort. Your posture, the way you hold your body when sitting, standing, or moving, plays a vital role in your overall well-being. Fortunately, chiropractors possess the expertise to assess your posture and offer guidance on adjustments that can help you stand taller and promote better health and comfort. Chiropractors are uniquely positioned to address posture-related concerns. During a chiropractic assessment, they thoroughly examine your posture, pinpointing areas of misalignment or tension in your musculoskeletal system. They will then develop a personalized plan to help you achieve and maintain a more upright and healthier position. Chiropractic adjustments and techniques focus on realigning the spine and joints, reducing muscle tension, and enhancing your body's overall function. These targeted adjustments can relieve discomfort associated with poor posture and help you maintain the necessary habits to keep your posture in check. Are Chiropractors Worth It? The worth of chiropractic care largely depends on an individual's specific needs and circumstances. Chiropractors can benefit many people, particularly those seeking relief from musculoskeletal issues, back pain, and certain headaches. Chiropractic care is often praised for its non-invasive and drug-free approach, focusing on addressing the root causes of problems rather than merely alleviating symptoms. It can also be a cost-effective alternative to more invasive treatments. However, it's essential to consult a qualified chiropractor and carefully consider your health goals. For some, chiropractic care may significantly improve well-being, while for others, alternative forms of treatment may be more suitable. Whether chiropractors are worth it should be based on individual health needs and preferences. Read Also: Can a Mattress Cause Back Pain? Four Easy Ways To Take Back Control Of Your Health This Summer Easy Ways To Prevent Back Pain With A Seat Cushion When You Are Seated All Day Long

READ MOREDetails
Bile Duct Injury

Long-Term Consequences Of Bile Duct Injury After Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Patients undergoing a laparoscopic cholecystectomy often suffer long-lasting complications, including bile duct injury. This article discusses the various long-term consequences associated with such injuries. It provides possible management strategies for these complications and why it is essential to consult a lawyer after the malpractice during the surgery. 1. Biliary strictures This condition occurs when the bile duct is structured after the laparoscopic cholecystectomy. It is characterized by retrograde cholangitis and chronic elevation of the bile acid concentration in the serum. Perforation Patients with this complication often complain about discomfort in the right lower abdomen with acute or subacute bleeding. The prognosis for these cases is relatively poor, as these patients need long-term and multidisciplinary management. 2. Hepatic atrophy This complication mainly occurs in young people and can be classified as an early or late disease, depending on its clinical presentation. It is characterized by chronic cholestasis and regression of liver function. Chronic Cholestasis This complication is detected when there is a change in the bile duct ultrasonography and serum bile acid concentration. The patients are often frail and feel tired, weak, or ill. They also have bright yellow discoloration on their skin. 3. Cholangitis This severe complication develops after laparoscopic cholecystectomy with perforations of the gallbladder wall. The presence of these perforations leads to impairment of the bile flow and infection of the bile ducts. Chronic Hepatitis This disease is characterized by chronic cholestasis and liver dysfunction. The diagnosis is made when there are signs of elevated serum bile acids, an enlarged gallbladder, and diffuse infiltration on ultrasound scans. 4. Intra-hepatic lithiasis Patients with this complication usually complain about pain in the right upper quadrant and fever. Other conditions complicate this problem, such as the development of a stone in the cystic duct or a choledochal cyst. Since stones in these areas obstruct the bile flow, making an early diagnosis and performing the proper treatment is essential. Biliary Obstruction This complication is detected when there are signs of jaundice, fever, or pain in the right upper quadrant. The diagnosis is made after an ultrasound examination. Why Consult a Lawyer’s Office After a Bile Duct Injury After Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy? The complication of bile duct injury during laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most severe and life-threatening condition after the surgery. The risk of this serious complication is directly related to the number of tiny perforations in the gallbladder that are caused during the surgery, which is why it is necessary to consult a lawyer to obtain adequate financial compensation for any troubles experienced by the patient and also to prevent any further complications from developing. If a person has developed one or several of these conditions, he will require long-term treatment, which can be very costly. Conclusion You must consult a lawyer to obtain proper financial compensation if you have a family member who has suffered from a bile duct injury. The amount of money you will receive from a legal suit is directly related to the extent of injuries or complications your loved one developed. Read Also: Top 10 Colorado Springs Personal Injury Attorneys5 CRITICAL THINGS TO LEARN ABOUT PERSONAL INJURY CLAIMS IN ANN ARBORFiling A Personal Injury Lawsuit In South Carolina: Here Are 7 Things You Should Know

READ MOREDetails