When it comes to addiction treatment, many people will have heard of the 12 step programme, but most, unless they’ve done it, won’t quite be aware of what it is and what it involves.

Across many alcohol rehab UK centres, the 12 step programme is encouraged as a way of entering recovery and maintaining sobriety, with it designed specifically for people looking to free themselves from the grips of the likes of substance abuse, compulsive behaviours and other destructive habits.

Created in 1935 by Bill Wilson and Dr Bob Smith, the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, it’s become a crucial part of many people’s lives, so if you’re considering giving up alcohol, drugs or anything else where behaviour may be falling into addictive, here’s all you need to know about the 12 step programme…

The 12 Steps: An Overview

As you can probably guess, the 12 step programme is made up of 12 key principles that guide people towards recovery. They help take people through the entire process and involve:

1. Admitting Powerlessness: The first step is to admit that you are powerless to your addiction and it has taken over you.
2. Belief in a Higher Power: This can be interpreted in different ways, but you need to place faith in a higher power to guide you through the recovery process.
3. Decision to Turn Over Control: You must make the conscious decision to turn your lives to the care of a higher power.
4. Moral Inventory: You will conduct a thorough examination of yourself to find the root causes of addiction and where you need to grow.
5. Admitting Wrongs: You will acknowledge and admit the past wrongs you’ve done to yourself and to others.
6. Readiness for Change: You will be ready to change and remove the character defects you have in your life.
7. Asking for Help: You’ll find help and guidance from your higher power.
8. Making Amends: For those that you have previously wronged, you will make amends and seek forgiveness.
9. Direct Amends: Amends should be made directly to people, unless it was to cause additional harm to them.
10. Continued Self-Examination: There will be a commitment to regular self-reflection in order to progress as best you can.
11. Spiritual Growth: You will look to improve your relationship with the higher power through prayer or meditation.
12. Helping Others: You will carry the message of recovery in order to help others on their journey to sobriety.

Typically, you’ll go through the 12 steps in regular group meetings, where everyone shares their experiences and progress in the steps. This is a crucial part of the process, with the community element helping bring a sense of belonging and support.

Things to Note About the 12 Step Programme

The 12 step programme has helped thousands upon thousands of people worldwide, but it is also important to note that it isn’t right for everyone. It’s not a one size fits all solution and there are some things you should understand about it before deciding whether it’s right for you…

Spiritual Component

You should understand that there are spiritual elements to the 12 step programme and it is partly religious, although you don’t necessarily need to be religious or follow a particular religion in order to benefit from it. There is an idea of surrendering control to a higher power, and this is central to many steps. However, people can define the “higher power” in a way that resonates with them. Therefore it doesn’t have to be God, but can be anything you deem it to be.

The Role of Sponsorship

Sponsors are an important part of the programme and you’re encouraged to work closely with another person who has been through the entire process themselves and is in recovery.

A sponsor can help provide guidance, support and ensure you remain accountable for your actions, as well as helping you navigate the 12 steps.

Confidentiality and Anonymity

Anyone going through the 12 steps should be allowed to do so without the fear of judgement or exposure. That’s why what’s shared in meetings remains confidential and there is an anonymity to group meetings too. This can help people feel safe and trusting in the process and environment, and allow people to be fully open about their journey.

Group Support

The programme places significant emphasis on community and peer support. Attending regular meetings, either in person or online, is a critical part of maintaining sobriety or recovery. Group members share their personal stories, struggles, and successes, offering encouragement to one another. This collective approach helps individuals feel less isolated and more empowered in their journey to recovery.

Ongoing Commitment

Recovery through the 12 step programme is not a quick fix. It requires a long-term commitment to the process. Maintaining sobriety or overcoming addiction is a continuous effort that involves introspection, accountability, and a willingness to grow. Many individuals remain active in the programme long after they have completed the 12 steps to ensure they stay on track and continue to support others.

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