What Is The Purpose Of The 12 Steps?

One of the most widely recognized approaches for helping people in recovery from substance use disorders is known as the 12-step program. No matter the struggle–alcohol, drugs, or any other addiction–the purpose of the 12-step program is to offer a path toward recovery for addicts of all sorts. The program focuses on spiritual growth, accountability, and community support. The 12 steps were developed by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), emphasizing personal responsibility and a connection to a higher power so that they might find healing. 

What is the purpose of the 12 Steps?

The purpose and core principles of the 12-step program provide a spiritual and practical framework to help guide the recovery of someone struggling with addiction on any level. Those who feel powerless over alcohol or drugs are encouraged to seek help from a power greater than themselves. Though the emphasis on a higher power does not have to be specific to a particular religion, it is at least acknowledged that this higher power is a spiritual or personal guide.

This program helps participants take stock of themselves, performing a searching and fearless moral inventory. This involves admitting wrongs to oneself and others and making amends for past mistakes. For those who practice these principles, this is not a one-time event but a daily occurrence. 

Key principles in the 12-step program include:

• Acceptance. Admitting that one is powerless over alcohol or drugs and that life has become unmanageable.
  
• Surrender. Acknowledging the need for a higher power to restore balance and restore us to sanity.
  
• Personal inventory. Conducting a fearless moral inventory to examine past actions that contributed to the addiction.
  
• Making amends. Admitting the nature of our wrongs and taking responsibility by apologizing to those harmed, ultimately seeking forgiveness.
  
• Spiritual awakening. Through prayer and meditation, individuals aim to connect with their higher power and experience a spiritual transformation.

The result of these steps is personal growth, healing, and a greater ability to manage life’s circumstances without relying on alcohol, drugs, or any other kind of substance.

What are the benefits of 12-step programs?

12-step programs have several benefits, often extending beyond helping individuals overcome addictions. They foster a sense of community and accountability and provide ongoing support. 

More generally, the key benefits include:

• Spiritual growth. One of the main objectives of the 12-step program is to encourage a spiritual awakening through reflection. The program guides its participants through prayer and meditation and engages with a power greater than themselves. The hopeful result is peace and finding purpose beyond addiction.
• Accountability and responsibility. The programs encourage individual and personal responsibility. Admitting the exact nature of our wrongs and willingly and humbly asking Him to remove these shortcomings–i.e., asking God–promotes healthy accountability and the forgiveness necessary to persevere.
• Community support. Vital support networks are provided to establish encouragement and camaraderie.
• Continuous growth. Though the goal is recovery, an additional objective is to seek lifelong success and growth by “practicing these principles in all our affairs.”

What is the history and evolution of the 12-step program?

Developed in 1935 by Dr. Bob Smith and Bill Wilson, the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, the 12-step program was initially a method for overcoming alcoholism. 

The success of AA led to the appropriation of its model for a variety of other addictive and dysfunctional behaviors. This led to the formation of other groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous and Gamblers Anonymous. Today, the 12-step program is utilized worldwide, offering a universal message of hope and recovery.

12 Steps at Into Action Recovery

If you or your family member is struggling with addiction, Into Action Recovery wants to help. We have an expert team of mental health professionals equipped to help with anything from anxiety disorders to mood disorders and addiction recovery. Acting quickly is always best; reach out as soon as possible to ensure the best possible outcome.