“Work the steps” is a common phrase in recovery culture. Referring to the 12 step program, this term encourages recovering addicts to complete the steps in their 12 step program.
With a long history of helping those in recovery overcome addiction, the 12 steps are an integral part of getting treatment for alcohol or drug addiction. Not sure where to begin or how to get the 12 steps to work for you? Read on.
What is the 12 Step Program?
The 12 step program, also known as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) method, is a recovery and sobriety organization for people who are struggling with addiction. The 12 steps will help you find a sense of community, work to overcome addiction, and improve your chances of relapse prevention.
While the 12 steps are often associated with alcohol addiction, there are many variations of this program. Some of the most popular include Cocaine Anonymous, Sex Addicts Anonymous, and Marijuana Anonymous.
The 12 steps program shows anyone with a substance use disorder that recovery is about more than getting sober. After going through detox, the 12 steps help recovering users stay sober. With the help of a solid 12 steps program, you’ll be able to adopt a healthy lifestyle and learn new tools to cope with life in a substance-free way.
Working the Steps
Working the steps ultimately refers to completing the 12 steps that the programs are built on. These 12 steps are essentially the philosophies and rules that are a part of the Big Book. Each step teaches one how to approach their recovery journey and encourages them in their mission to be substance-free.
Ultimately, working the steps is a reminder to those in recovery to keep going. Every day in your journey to sobriety may be like fighting an uphill battle. A reminder to “work the steps” serves as encouragement to remember why you’re doing what you’re doing and advice to follow the guidelines that will help you stay sober.
Exploring the 12 Steps
Historically, the 12 steps in Alcoholics Anonymous are tied to the Christian religion. While many AA groups and similar programs are built on this religious background, you can work the steps without having any religious affiliation.
Ultimately, the 12 steps help those in recovery acknowledge the effects substance use has had in their lives. By admitting this, one is in a better position to accept help and make changes accordingly.
The following are a few steps you’ll learn through the program:
- Admit that you are powerless to addiction
- Find hope through a higher goal and higher power
- Turn the power of managing your life to a higher power
- Make amends for the wrongs you’ve made
Most of the 12 steps are focused on bettering one’s self, recognizing where you’ve failed, and finding the hope to do better. Remember that recovery is a process. Even if you’re not where you want to be, deciding to do better and following through with that choice is enough.
The Benefits of 12 Step Programs
The 12 step program is a time-tested strategy for anyone who has struggled with addiction. Whether you’re religious or not, you can benefit from the accountability and support that comes with the 12 step program. By working the program and following the steps, you can achieve sobriety and lead a fulfilling life.
These steps have helped millions of people recover from alcohol and drug abuse by providing them benefits such as:
Finding a sense of community
The community you’ll find in a 12 step program is unparalleled. In your program, you’ll get a mentor that will help you stay strong in fighting the urge to use. Moreover, they’ll help you in improving your social circle, finding options for future employment, and growing a network of sober individuals that will encourage you in your sobriety.
Overcome addiction
Overcoming addiction doesn’t happen overnight. The 12 steps acknowledge this and help you in beginning and continuing your journey to a lifetime of sobriety.
Improve relapse prevention
Relapse prevention begins with growing a strong support system. In your 12 step programs, you’ll form lifelong friendships with individuals that understand the difficulty in breaking an addiction and fighting to stay sober. This type of support is invaluable in preventing future relapses.
If you are ready to get started with the 12 steps, today is the best time to do that. Start your journey to recovery today by contacting us at 855-936-4435. Our counselors are available 24 hours a day and ready to speak with you.
