What is a 12 Step Rehab Program?

Overcoming addiction is not easy. Finding the right type of treatment for you can make all the difference in ensuring long-term recovery. 

There are several types of rehab programs available, but a 12-step rehab is one that has been effective for many. This article will let you know what’s involved in a 12-step program so you can decide if this option is best for you. 

What is a 12 Step Rehab Program?

The 12-step recovery program is based on the theory that there are 12 steps you need to take to overcome addiction. It is the basis for the Alcoholics Anonymous program that was founded by Bill Wilson.

Although the 12-step approach began in AA, it has been applied to other types of addiction. For instance, it is used in a variety of groups that fight addiction, including Narcotics Anonymous, Gamblers Anonymous, Sexaholics Anonymous, and so on. 

The steps are spiritual in nature, and they are integrated via group meeting sessions. The meetings are available at rehab facilities, and people can also access free meetings all over the country.

Some programs that use the 12 steps may change them around slightly, but they all have the same basic meaning and purpose.

What are the 12 Steps?

The 12 steps start with the patient admitting they have grown powerless over their addiction and need a higher power to help them overcome their dependency issues; in this case, they turn to God.

They must then take a moral inventory of themselves and admit their shortcomings to God and those around them. They ask God to remove their shortcomings. They also make a list of the people they have done wrong to make amends whenever possible. 

They continue to take a moral inventory and communicate with God through prayer and meditation. This should lead to a spiritual reawakening. People who follow the 12 steps must also try to carry the message to others and offer their support.

How Do the 12 Steps Help?

The 12 steps are made to encourage self-examination and inspire self-control and a sense of responsibility. The people that follow them are motivated to turn to a higher power that replaces their desire to drink and do drugs. Making amends holds them accountable for their addiction and the undesirable behaviors it caused. 

Those who get through the 12 steps are said to realize their purpose in life. They are also in a place where they can help others. Many become sponsors for addicts who are starting their 12-step rehab journey. 

How to Find 12 Step Programs

Most 12 step programs can be joined by attending free meetings that are held in various communities throughout the country. To find meetings near you, you can do an online search of the group you feel will help most (i.e. AA, NA, SA, etc.). Once you enter your location, you will find out where and when the meetings happen. From there, you can show up and participate.

Several rehab facilities offer 12 step recovery in their treatment. If you feel integrating this type of therapy is important, look for a service that includes it in their program. 

Why Prevail May Be Your Best Option

In addition to finding a facility that offers a 12-step rehab, you will also want to enroll in one that offers a good atmosphere, high success rates, and a caring staff. After doing some research, you will find that Prevail Recovery checks off all the boxes. 

Prevail Recovery is a drug and alcohol rehab in Fort Lauderdale, FL. We take a dual diagnosis approach that simultaneously addresses the addiction and its underlying causes. We integrate this strategy into a variety of outpatient treatments that allow you to recover without taking a lot of time away from work and family. 

Our therapies include a wide range of options, including a 12-step program. We believe this type of treatment helps patients dig into their past and look forward to a brighter future. We offer this rehab alongside family therapy, integrative nutrition, detox, and more. 
Addiction is not easy to overcome, but 12 step rehab has proven to be an effective option. Contact Prevail Recovery to find out how it can help you get past your dependency issues. We promise you won’t regret your decision to reach out.