12 step recovery programs have literally helped millions of people since 12 step recovery programs began in the mid 1930's. 12 step recovery programs are virtually all founded on the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, also known as AA. 12 step recovery programs such as AA believe that alcoholism is a disease of both the mind and the body. Many other 12 step recovery programs also effectively use this approach for a wide variety of substance abuse and behavior disorder treatments. In addition, renowned treatment center like Spencer Recovery Centers also incorporate 12 step recovery programs into their treatment plan model and recommend these support groups for continuing care.

At the heart of all 12 step recovery programs are of course the 12 steps. The 12 steps are an ongoing process that will sustain abstinence from alcohol and other drugs if they are followed. The steps help identify the problem that is adversely affecting ones life and propose a solution to address those problems. 12 step recovery programs are dynamic and the solution always involved taking action to examine past mistakes and live a better life today without regrets.

Step one is about identifying the true problem and getting honest with oneself. It is often said that half the battle is simply admitting that one is an alcoholic, addict or dependent on other types of compulsive behaviors such as eating or gambling. The ability to be honest clears a path for integrity and finding a solution to living without the crutch. Facing reality is so important because using drugs, alcohol and other compulsive behaviors was just the opposite, running away from reality. By being truthful, many choices appear and a real solution to the problem can be found.

The second step of 12 step recovery programs deals with finding a solution outside oneself. Once the truth is realized it is understood that we were totally out of control of our drinking and using so our willpower and self discipline is clearly not the answer. We tried to exert self discipline many times and always failed. The second step shows us how to find the power for the solution. It has to be a power outside of ourselves since ourselves are powerless against drugs and alcohol and always will be.

The next ten steps of 12 step recovery programs focus on finding the power outside of yourself in order to live without the destructive influence of drugs and alcohol. Until action is taken, the description of the 12 step program can seem like spiritual platitudes unattainable by the average person. That is why many people find professional intervention so helpful.

Spencer Recovery Centers has been working with 12 step recovery programs for over a decade and has successfully introduced thousands of clients to the process and a life free from the bonds of drugs and alcohol. Please call us today for more information about 12 step recovery programs and how Spencer Recovery Centers can help with a drug, alcohol or other substance abuse problem.

If you or a loved one is suffering from a dependency of any kind, understand that alcoholism and addiction are progressive and always get worse unless treated. Spencer Recovery Centers invites you to call us right now with any questions about getting help and stopping the cycle of abuse. We have helped many people defeat their addictions and can help you too. Call today.