12-step programme for addiction recovery

Originally outlined by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), the 12 steps are a set of guiding principles that help people during addiction treatment and recovery. Initially created for those struggling with alcoholism, the 12 steps have proven such a success that they are now used as the basis for recovery from many substance and behavioural addictions.

Many aspects of addiction treatment at Priory are underpinned by the 12-step model. Read on to find out more about how the model works, and whether engaging with it is right for the good of your recovery.

What are the 12 steps?

The 12 steps have been tweaked and adapted over time, but the original basis of each principle remains the same. For instance, in its early years, the idea of a higher power revolved around the term ‘God’. Today, that has broadened out to allow for different types of interpretation, religious or non-religious beliefs.

• Accept the reality: The first step relates to acceptance for the situation you find yourself in. This involves making an admission of being powerless to what you’re addicted to and that your life has become unmanageable. After what might have been years of denial, you're ready to accept change is needed
• Have faith in a higher power: A central tenet of the 12 steps revolves around the idea of a higher power that will help you in your journey. Step 2 involves you having faith in this higher power and its ability to heal you
• Submit to the higher power: Once you’ve completed step 2, you can admit that you can’t do this journey alone. Along your journey, you’ll need the support of your peers and a higher power
• Embark on some soul-searching: Described as undergoing a “moral inventory” in the Big Book, step 4 involves some self-reflection. Identify your problems and understand how your behaviours have affected you and those around you
• Admit your failings: Step 5 then sees you admit to these wrongdoings in front of your identified higher power and another person. This step offers a great opportunity for growth and the chance to make a fresh start
• Be ready to let go: Once you’ve identified and accepted your flaws, step 6 challenges you to let them go. It allows you to fully embrace these damaging traits that are underpinning your difficulties with addiction
• Show humility: Next, you’ll show humility by admitting you can’t do this alone. Ask the higher power for help, doing something that sheer will and determination can’t achieve
• Show willingness to make amends: Make a list of people who have been on the receiving end of your damaging behaviour. Fully embrace the idea of making amends to each and every one of them
• Begin to make amends: Begin to make amends and rebuild relationships at every opportunity
• Check in with your progress: By step 10, maintaining the spiritual progress you’ve made is essential. Continue soul-searching, admitting your failings and making amends
• Discover your plan and purpose: Step 11 relates to discovering what plan this higher power has for your life
• Share the message: The final step involves a commitment to continuing with these principles in all aspects of your life. You’re also challenged to continue spreading the message to other people struggling with addiction

How long does it take to go through a 12-step programme?

Recovery from addiction is a lifelong pursuit. While you may typically be in initial treatment for addiction for a matter of weeks, the 12-step philosophy can help develop a long-term mindset for recovery. Some people complete the 12-step element of the process in just a couple of months, whereas others may take years.

Addiction recovery is not a race. Give yourself time to accept what has happened in the past and adopt the new framework you need to ensure long-term recovery.

Types of 12-step anonymous groups

More information on some of the 12-step fellowship meetings that our patients have access to can be seen below:

• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) - AA is a 12-Step fellowship for those seeking to solve their problem with alcohol and to help others through sharing their experiences and guidance.
• Narcotics Anonymous (NA) - NA is a 12-Step fellowship allowing people to join together to help one another to stay drug-free.
• Co-dependents Anonymous (CoDa) - CoDa offers regular meetings for individuals with a shared desire for healthy and loving relationships. These meetings are based on the 12-Step model and members share experiences and strength as they work towards recovery.
• Gamblers Anonymous - Gamblers Anonymous is adapted from AA and offers a 12-Step recovery programme for men and women whose lives have been affected by compulsive gambling and who share a desire to do something about their gambling problem.
• Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous (SLAA) - SLAA is a 12-Step fellowship adapted from AA, offering support to men and women in dealing with addictive sexual and emotional behaviour.