While there are several different approaches to addiction recovery, the 12 step program is one of the most popular. This is why treatment centers often offer 12 step meetings. This common addiction treatment philosophy can be a helpful, fantastic resource for those working toward sobriety.

The 12 Step Philosophy

An addiction counselor discusses the 12 step program with one of her patientsThe 12 step philosophy is a treatment plan in more than three-quarters of the world’s addiction rehab centers. At its heart are the 12 steps, which patients work through chronologically. The goal is, by the time the 12 steps are complete, patients are addiction free and maintaining sobriety.

The 12 steps don’t follow a specific timeline. For some, they can take years to complete. Fortunately, the 12 steps begin in rehab and completion is at one’s own pace. Patients learn about the 12 steps, begin them, and transition to local 12 step meetings in their area after rehab.

In the 1930s, Bill Wilson created the 12 steps as part of the Alcoholics Anonymous program. Today, the 12 steps are just as successful for alcohol addictions.

The 12 step philosophy receives a lot of praise. However, there are concerns about the religious nature of the program. For those who have trouble accepting a higher power, there are customizable, alternative options that work for everyone.

What are the 12 Steps?

Every program offers a slightly different version of the 12 steps. For the most part, however, they are as follows:

  1. Admitting powerlessness over addiction.
  2. Believing that a higher power can help your recovery.
  3. Turning over control to that higher power.
  4. Conducting a personal inventory.
  5. Admitting wrongdoings to a third party.
  6. Allowing a higher power to fix your flaws.
  7. Asking a higher power to address your shortcomings.
  8. Making a list of wrongs and people you’ve hurt in the past.
  9. Making amends as long as it will help, not harm, the other person.
  10. Continuing to take an ongoing personal inventory and make changes as needed.
  11. Practicing mindfulness, meditation or prayer on a regular basis.
  12. Practicing the 12 steps for life and helping others do the same.

The Lifelong Nature of the 12 Step Program

Part of the success of the 12 step program its universality. Anyone can do it at anytime, anywhere. While it’s often part of formal drug addiction treatment, it’s also available at local meetings. You can find 12 step meetings in church basements and community centers around the world.

Additionally, the program is ongoing. For example, you don’t reach graduation and leave. Reaching the final step means obtaining mentor status, but the program remains beneficial for the rest of your life.

Including the 12 Steps in the Path to Recovery

At 1st Step Behavioral Health, the 12 step philosophy is a part of our overall treatment model. With various addiction treatment methods and therapies, prospective patients can expect access to:

If you’re ready to overcome addiction, the 12 step program can help. At 1st Step Behavioral Health in Pompano Beach, Florida, the 12 steps are your road to recovery. Take back the life you deserve by calling 866-319-6126 today.