The twelve steps and twelve traditions

The twelve steps and twelve traditions are one of the most common and effective methods of treating alcohol and drug addition. These steps have been specially designed to help recover from compulsive behavioral problems. The twelve steps were first published by alcoholics anonymous and help identify the problem. The first step is about admitting being powerless over alcohol. The second step is about agreeing that someone could fix the problem and so on. As the steps proceed, the addict realizes the extent of the harm done and slowly begins to move towards a recovery process. These steps cover all three aspects of human development, namely mental, physical and spiritual. It is true that most people believe that the recovery process in these cases is only physical, but indeed in reality the mental awareness and the spiritual awakening also play a huge role. The twelve steps and twelve traditions have proved to be highly effective not only in curing the addiction but also in preventing the addict from going back to the addiction after leaving the rehab center.

The twelve step program is essentially about accepting the problem openly and coming to terms with it. This is one of the main reasons as to why most support groups open the conversation by using the phrase ‘hi I am (name of the person) and I am an alcoholic’. This admission of the problem is said to serve as the first stepping stone on the path of recovery. Most of these programs insist that it is very important for the person to desire him/herself to give up the addiction, since self awareness forms the corner stone of the recovery.

The twelve step program is often supported by a sponsor. A sponsor is an experienced person in the recovery program who helps the novice in sticking to the program. The sponsor and the sponsee share a one on one relationship and the latter depends on the former in case he/she finds temptation overtaking. Indeed the rapport between the two is of great consequence for the success of the program.

While these steps were initially designed by alcohol anonymous, today they are followed by several other rehab programs. However, this is not to say that the program works for everyone. Since the essence of the program is a belief in a supreme power, those who are not inclined to this belief rarely find success here. All the same, many rehab centers have benefited from these steps.

The twelve steps and twelve traditions can only succeed if the addict him/herself seeks redemption from within. Wanting to quit the habit and lead an addiction free desire is the main driving force of any rehabilitation program. Learning about the twelve steps and twelve traditions will go a long way in helping fight a successful battle against the addiction in question.