12 Step Programs to Cure Addiction?
The 12 Step Program is a self-help program commonly used by members of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. It is basically a group of written principles that are used to help alcoholics, drug abusers and their family members learn how to cope with the day to day problems that arise from addictions. Many people have questions about the 12 step program but don’t know where to go for the answers.
The program is spiritual in nature and can be used by not only the person with the addiction problem, but their friends and family members as well. Alcoholics Anonymous officially began in 1935 in Akron, Ohio. The first group was started by a New York broker and a very well known surgeon who both suffered from alcoholism. The first 12 Step book was made available to the public in April of 1939. The member count for those attending A.A. meetings has since risen to over two million.
To begin the program is recommended that the person wishing to overcome their addiction become familiar by reading the First Step. By doing this they will get a better understanding of what the program is about. If possible it is helpful to find an A.A. meeting that is close by. Attending a meeting will introduce to the person to others that have used the program to overcome addictions. If it is impossible to go to a face-to-face meeting, there are online versions available.
After attending a few meetings it is advisable to find a sponsor. This is a person that helps you go through the twelve steps of the program. Finding a sponsor that you feel comfortable with is very important. Begin going through the steps of the program at number one and work your way through to number twelve. This may take some time. Your sponsor will help you decide the pace at which the steps can be finished. Some sponsors take their time with the steps and go very in-depth, while others rush through as quickly as possible. The 12 step program as a solution is open to interpretation, as many do things differently within it.
Because the program has helped so many others overcome their addiction problems and live a normal, healthy lifestyle, it is highly recommended by physicians, psychologists and many other health care providers. The program is free, thus making it available to everyone that wishes to use it.