12 STEP APPROACH

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE 12 STEPS

12 Steps focus on being honest with oneself and others, emphasizing these tenets:

Relinquishing control and accepting the help of others and a Higher Power
Acknowledging the impact of one’s actions on self and others

Taking proactive steps to right one’s wrongs and repair relationships
Committing to maintain the change created by practicing the steps and carrying the message of restoration to others in need

The 12 Steps promote self-ownership and responsibility, which is critical to personal development, and they also provide instruction for how to interact with others in a humble, healthy way. Research has proven that connecting with others has a significant effect on a person’s ability to recover from substance abuse. Both treatment professionals and those in recovery can attest to the power of community in helping individuals maintain sobriety, recover from relapse, and reach their goals.

The 12 Steps are a set of principles that support an alcoholic’s journey to recovery, and they have since been adapted for other fellowships, like Narcotics Anonymous (NA). The 12 Steps are rooted in Christian spirituality—but as fundamental truths, they have supported alcoholics and addicts of all worldviews on the road to recovery. The power of the 12 Steps lies in its emphasis on acceptance, honesty, connection, and responsibility, traits that have made 12-Step treatment effective for many.

USING 12-STEP GROUPS TO SUPPORT RECOVERY

With its long history and proven track record, it makes sense that AA and the 12 Steps are still going strong. In our The Meadows Outpatient Centers use 12-Step groups and truths are integrated into the program to build community and provide patients with a bridge to sustaining recovery once treatment is completed. We use these time-tested principles alongside our research-backed protocols to help each person attain emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual recovery.