12-step programme for addiction recovery
How the 12-step philosophy helps millions battling addiction, from initial treatment to securing long-term recovery.
Originally introduced by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), the 12 steps are a set of guiding principles that help people during addiction treatment and recovery. Initially created for people 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 of our addiction treatment programmes include elements of the 12-step model. Here, you can learn more about how the approach works and whether it might support your own recovery journey.
How does the 12-step programme help?
First published in 1939, AA’s ‘Big Book’ outlines the basic principles of the 12-step programme and how it works. The technique focuses on your motivation to change your unhealthy thought patterns and addictive behaviours, and also incorporates elements of spirituality within the treatment and recovery process.
The programme doesn’t focus on absolute perfection and dedication to each step. It recognises that personal growth is a gradual process, and that everyone progresses at their own pace.
During treatment, patients progress through various stages of the 12-step programme, typically in a group therapy format. You’re encouraged to share your progress with peers, receive constructive feedback and develop insight and awareness.
Patients are also able to attend regular AA and other 12-step fellowship meetings, which are held both on and off-site at our Priory hospitals. This allows you to enhance your engagement with the 12-step philosophy and the wider recovery community. We also offer individual therapy, family support sessions, and wellness activities as part of many of our addiction treatment services, to support the 12-step programme.
The end of treatment doesn't necessarily mean the end of your 12-step journey. The 12-steps aim to develop a shift in mindset that lasts a lifetime. Many people will continue using the framework to help maintain abstinence in the future, alongside helping others on their journey.
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.
Step 1: 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.
Step 2: 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.
Step 3: 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.
Step 4: 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.
Step 5: 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.
Step 6: 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.
Step 7: 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.
Step 8: 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.
Step 9: Begin to make amends
Begin to make amends and rebuild relationships at every opportunity.
Step 10: 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.
Step 11: Discover your plan and purpose
Step 11 relates to discovering what plan this higher power has for your life.
Step 12: 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.
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:
- AA -
AA is a 12-step fellowship for people 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 people 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 (GA) - GA is adapted from AA and offers a 12-step recovery programme for people 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 people in dealing with addictive sexual and emotional behaviour
Treatment for addiction at Priory
Using our network of hospital sites and wellbeing centres, Priory offers effective, evidence-based treatment for addiction. The treatment we provide is informed by the 12-step process and includes access to on and off-site 12-step support groups. Our world class team of consultant psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists and other medical professionals deliver the very best treatment to those struggling with addiction every day.
At Priory, we offer a range of addiction treatment services tailored to suit your individual needs. Depending on the level of support required, this might include inpatient treatment at one of our specialist centres, or more flexible options such as outpatient therapy, day care or online support that fit around your everyday responsibilities.
To help determine which approach is right for you, we offer a free addiction assessment. This is an opportunity to talk through the challenges you’re facing with a specialist and explore the most suitable treatment pathway. Use the information below to book your free assessment and take the first step towards recovery.
FAQs
Discover some commonly asked questions about 12-step programmes.
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.
How do I start the 12 steps of recovery?
Starting the 12 steps of recovery begins with acknowledging that you need support, which is a courageous first step.
You can start your journey by attending a local meeting or reaching out to a recovery group that resonates with your needs. At your first meeting, it's helpful to listen and, if you feel comfortable, share your own experiences. Many find it beneficial to partner with a sponsor who has successfully navigated the programme, as they can offer invaluable guidance and support as you work through each step.
Remember, the path to recovery is a personal journey, and taking it one step at a time can make the process more manageable.
Do I need a sponsor?
Although it's not mandatory to have a sponsor in a 12-step programme, many participants highly recommend it. Having a sponsor to guide you through the process can enhance your ability to stay sober and improve your treatment results.
