Treatment for substance use disorder spans many different types. This allows for a customized approach that can be tailored to meet the individual’s needs. One of the most well-known aspects of treatment is a 12 step program. One of the reasons it has enjoyed such longevity is because of the many benefits of a 12 step program.
The Basics Of A 12 Step Program
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) made the 12 step philosophy part of its recovery process with many people finding success with its tenets. Other programs based on the concepts made famous by adopted them as part of their recovery process as well. These include Overeaters Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Gamblers Anonymous, and others.
What Makes A 12 Step Program Different?
One of the many benefits of a 12 step program is that they follow the same basic principles no matter which one you attend. This can be welcome news if you attend a substance abuse treatment program in an area far from your home, but you want to continue with aftercare closer to where you live.
One of the foundations of a 12 step program is admitting that you have a problem and that you are seeking help from a higher power. Engaging with a 12 step program also involves taking inventory of your life so you can begin the healing process. Part of this is seeking forgiveness from those you have hurt. A crucial part of your recovery is helping others stay sober and substance-free.
The Benefits Of A 12 Step Program
So how do those 12 step program differences translate into benefits that can help you during your recovery and prevent relapse? Below are just a few that you can experience.
1. Accessibility
One of the primary benefits of a 12 step program is the accessibility of groups and meetings. No matter where you live, vacation, work, or play, there is likely to be a meeting or group within the vicinity.
2. Sound Principles
At the very heart of the 12 step program philosophy is the focus on looking beyond oneself. Instead of putting yourself and your desires first all the time, it encourages you to implement principles that help improve your relationships — both with others and yourself.
3. Camaraderie
While you’re in recovery, your support system is extremely important. Your friends, family members, and substance abuse professionals are often the backbone of that support system. In spite of all they try to do, though, there is something very different about getting support and encouragement from someone who has gone through the same things you have experienced. You’ll find those people when you participate in a 12 step program.
4. Encouragement
As noted above, your support system is there to provide you with encouragement as you do the difficult work of recovery. One of the benefits of a 12 step program is that you’ll have the opportunity to find a sponsor. This person is available to help you through the rough spots that you’ll inevitably experience during your recovery process. They’ll be there to encourage you, provide you with alternatives, and help you as you continue to make strides during your recovery.
The above are just a few of the many benefits you’ll experience when you participate in a 12 step program. It’s an important part of anyone’s recovery which is why so many substance abuse treatment program offer it.
Serenity Light Recovery offers access to a 12 step program as well as other services including:
- Full Medical Detox
- Yoga And Fitness Program
- Residential Treatment
- Family Program
- Intensive Outpatient Program and more
Learn more about what makes Serenity Light Recovery different by calling us today at (281) 431-6700.
As our CEO, Heather’s main calling is to stay true to the vision of the organization, which is saving lives and striving to redefine statistics by raising the standard of care with evolving treatment methods. Heather studied psychology at LSU and both the main and Clear Lake campuses of the University of Houston, and she is a certified IASIS provider and CPI instructor. She’s been helping people in recovery since 2011. Heather’s motto to live by is “I am not what I’ve done; I am what I’ve overcome.”
