Part of the charm of a 12-Step program is knowing that in 1935, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) started a whole revolution of people trying to better themselves through changing their thinking, and replacing their addictive behaviors with sober ones. Since AA started, there are have been many other recovery programs that have emulated the same model but in their own terms for the specific issue.
You will hear many members of 12-Step programs exclaim, “This was the last house on the block for me!” Their meaning with this statement is that they tried many other ways such as moderation, cold-turkey, or switching to lighter drugs and alcohol in an attempt to overcome the obsession to drink and use to no avail. Once they came to a 12-Step program, they found a design for living that showed them a new way of life without drugs and alcohol they there were able to adhere to.
Is a 12-Step program one size fits all?
Obviously, everyone is different in their needs for recovery. Everyone has different factors that make them come to get help with cessation of drugs and alcohol, but one thing remains the same – a person with an addiction cannot stop using or drinking on their own. Every individual has an opportunity to take the suggestions of a 12-Step program to get sober. Some try to go rogue to do whatever they think recovery looks like, and find they have a hard time staying sober because they do not want to be told what to do. 12-Step programs can mean different things to different people although if someone does the 12 Steps in entirety with rigorous honesty to build a solid foundation in recovery, they cannot go wrong.
Are there alternatives to a 12-Step program?
For those who feel like a 12-Step program is not a match for them, there are other programs that have lead others to staying sober. Programs like SMART Recovery, LifeRing, S.O.S Sobriety., Women For Sobriety, and Celebrate Recovery are some of the alternatives to 12-Step programs that have lead others to sobriety.
One thing to consider when trying to get sober is when you surrender and stop fighting what people are suggesting, you can get sober. Using what works for others instead of trying to be right about things you have never tried will put you in the direction you need to be to get out of the way and fulfill your purpose. Find your place in recovery, move in, and stay put for good.
Offering a full range of recovery and mental health services, Detox Center of Colorado offers “Expanded Recovery” to enrich our clients’ lives in mind, body, and spirit. Through evidence-based therapy options and the endless adventure of Colorado, Detox Center of Colorado fosters connection, encouraging clients to get connected to themselves, their peers, their families, and their higher power. With the power of recovery, clients are restored to full health and experience life-changing healing. Call us today for more information: 303-536-5463
