What Is a Rehab 12-Step Program?
What Do the Rehab 12 Steps Consist of?
Programs with the rehab 12 steps usually involve attending regular meetings, such as those run by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA). 12-Step meetings are where individuals can share their experiences with others and be held accountable for their progress. Additionally, rehab 12-Step programs may also include individual counseling and other therapeutic activities to help patients better understand the causes of their addiction and how to cope with triggers that could lead to relapse.
By following the rehab 12 steps and engaging in supportive therapies, individuals are able to develop new skills for sobriety and build a strong foundation for living a life free from addiction.
Are There Different Types of Rehab 12-Step Programs?
Yes, there are different types of programs that include the rehab 12 steps, depending on the type of addiction. For example, AA is a well-known program for recovery from alcohol addiction, and NA provides similar services for those dealing with drug addiction. Other forms of the rehab 12 steps also exist and are tailored to specific addictions such as gambling, food, sex, and more.
No matter the type of rehab 12-Step program, individuals can benefit from attending meetings and engaging in therapeutic activities. Active participation is key to a better understanding of addiction and increases success in a full recovery. With dedication, motivation, and support, individuals can learn how to maintain long-term sobriety.
Types of Recovery Programs Available
There are support groups available for all types of addictions, and many offer additional services and treatments to help in the recovery journey. In addition to the rehab 12 steps, there are the following:
- SMART Recovery: A program that teaches individuals cognitive behavioral techniques to help them overcome their addiction.
- LifeRing Secular Recovery: A non-religious program designed to support individuals in their recovery through mutual aid and self-empowerment.
- Women for Sobriety: A women’s only 12-Step program that focuses on self-esteem, emotional well-being, and positive thinking.
- Celebrate Recovery: An addiction recovery program inspired by the Christian faith that focuses on providing emotional and spiritual healing.
- Rational Recovery: A non-Twelve-Step program that teaches individuals to be self-reliant in their recovery through self-change techniques.
Regardless of the rehab 12 steps program an individual chooses to pursue, it is important to remember that these programs are not a “quick fix” solution to addiction. They take time, effort, and dedication for them to be successful.
Additional Treatment Modalities
There are additional opportunities for healing that incorporate the rehab 12 steps, as well as others that choose different techniques altogether. There are resources for each specific need and experience. These include:
- Inpatient 12-Step Recovery Centers: These centers provide twenty-four-seven care and support in a therapeutic environment, helping individuals focus on their recovery from addiction. Inpatient treatment is especially helpful for those with more severe conditions and poor social support.1
- Outpatient 12-Step Recovery Centers: These centers offer flexible hours and access to ongoing treatment for those who need extra help in their journey to recovery.
- Support Groups: Group sessions (similar to NA or AA) allow individuals to share experiences and find camaraderie with others in similar situations.
- Individual Therapy: One-on-one counseling is available at many recovery centers. Individual therapy provides a personal and intimate setting for patients to discuss their struggles and learn healthy coping mechanisms. Many therapies are available, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), brainspotting, and motivational interviewing (MI).
- Life Skills Training: Many 12-Step programs provide life skills training such as financial planning, goal setting, job search skills, and other relevant topics. These skills can help individuals in recovery navigate life outside the treatment center more effectively.
- Family Counseling: Family counseling is also offered at some 12-Step programs to help family members understand addiction and how to support their loved one during and after treatment.
- Recreational Opportunities: Some 12-Step programs provide recreational activities such as yoga, meditation, art therapy, sports leagues, hiking, and team activities.
The 12 Steps of Rehabilitation Recovery Programs
The rehab 12 steps are a set of guidelines that can help individuals recovering from addiction. These steps have been proven effective in helping people overcome addiction and live sober, productive lives. The 12 Steps can be divided into three essential parts: admitting to the addiction, committing to change, and taking action to achieve sobriety.
While the rehab 12 steps may seem simple, they can be challenging to follow without support. For those struggling with addiction, many resources are available to aid recovery. Joining a support group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, can be extremely beneficial in providing the encouragement and accountability needed to stay on track and maintain sobriety. Additionally, finding an addiction counselor can help make the journey toward recovery much easier.
The 12 Steps of Addiction Recovery
The 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous are as follows:2
- We admitted that we were powerless over our addiction and our lives had become unmanageable.
- Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
- Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.
- Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.
- Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
- Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.
- Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.
- Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.
- Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
- Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.
- Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.
- Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.
Following the rehab 12 steps of addiction recovery can help individuals gain the strength needed to stay sober and live a life free of addiction.
Tips for Making the Most Out of Your Treatment Plan
In order to achieve lasting recovery, individuals need to take an active role in their treatment plan. It is essential to attend all meetings and therapy sessions as scheduled, follow through with assignments given by counselors or sponsors, and actively participate in group discussions. Patients must be honest about their struggles and ask questions if they don’t understand something. Finally, they should avoid turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as drugs or alcohol when feeling overwhelmed.
Where Do the 12 Steps Come From?
The 12 Steps were first formulated in the 1930s by Bill Wilson and Bob Smith. They created these steps to help people struggling with alcoholism, which is how Alcoholics Anonymous was born. As the 12 Steps gained popularity, the program was adapted to treat other forms of addiction. The rehab 12 Steps have become a widely accepted model for treating substance abuse. Today, they are now used in many different types of recovery programs.3
The 12 Steps emphasize the importance of spirituality and community. Individuals are encouraged to develop a relationship with their higher power, seek support from others who are recovering, and practice self-reflection and honesty to stay sober.
What to Expect From Attending a Rehab 12-Step Program?
Attending a rehab 12-step program is an important part of the recovery process. It can provide patients with the support and guidance needed to maintain sobriety and successfully navigate life without substances.
During these programs, individuals will meet others in recovery who can share their experiences and offer advice and encouragement. Research has indicated the effectiveness of 12-step programs primarily stems from their easy access, social nature, and exposure to recovery.4
Why 12-Step Programs Work
Participating in programs like rehab 12 steps allow individuals to learn coping strategies for dealing with potential risk factors, cravings, and other aspects of addiction. People can expect to participate in group therapy sessions and have the opportunity to share their stories with others.
Many programs offer educational classes on topics such as stress management, coping with emotions, and understanding addiction. They will also learn about relapse prevention strategies and develop a plan for continuing recovery after completing treatment.
The success of these programs has been outlined in multiple studies. Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous reported sobriety rates, showing that 45% of AA members and 55% of NA members achieved abstinence for at least five years.5
Why 12-Step Programs Don’t Work
Despite the many benefits of 12-step programs, they are not suitable for everyone. Some people may be uncomfortable sharing their stories or find the steps too restrictive. Others criticize the focus on spirituality in many of the rehab 12 steps. It’s important to evaluate whether this program is right for you and your recovery needs before committing to it.
Begin Recovery at Iris Healing®
At Iris Healing®, our highly-skilled and empathetic staff take a deeply vested commitment to your wellness. We want you to succeed and will put in the work alongside you on your rehab 12 steps journey to ensure you reach recovery.
Taking a Personalized Approach to Holistic Healing
We will make a personalized treatment plan to fit your unique needs and expectations while guiding you toward the most fitting 12-Step addiction recovery program. We combine holistic healing methods with evidence-based treatment modalities to ensure you receive the best care possible. Utilizing a holistic approach allows us to provide therapies and techniques that focus on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
We understand that addiction is a chronic disease that requires care and attention. We are here to provide the compassionate, supportive environment needed to recover and reclaim your life.
Reach Out Today and Begin Your Wellness Journey
With our guidance and support, you can make a full recovery from addiction and start living the life you deserve. Contact us today to get started on your journey of healing.
Iris Healing® strives to be diligent and prompt in updating the information available on our website. Please note, however, that our treatment modalities and protocols are subject to change at any time. For the most up-to-date details regarding our treatment offerings or other protocols, please contact us: (844)663-4747
