The term “12 steps” refers to the core principles of the approach to addiction exemplified by Alcoholics AnonymousThe original 12-step fellowship, formed in 1935, to help alcoholics, regain control over their lives. It remains the largest 12-step organization and has contributed to the sobriety of millions worldwide. Read more about Alcoholics Anonymous and other similar groups. The 12 steps are a set of guidelines designed to help individuals overcome addiction and rebuild their lives. They were created by the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, Bill Wilson and Dr. Robert Holbrook Smith, and were initially workshopped in the early meetings of AA.
The 12 steps received mass exposure in “The Big BookThe basic text of AA was the first to methodically introduce the 12-steps. It is still the main source for meetings and is quoted in just about all AA and other 12-step literature. the Library of Congress named it one of the 88 “Books that shaped America.” Read more about the Big Book of AA. of AA,” published in 1939, and have since been adopted by many groups and used in other 12 step programs and in rehabRehabilitation from addiction to a substance or harmful behavior. The term is often used to refer to in-patient facilities. Rehab usually consists of an intensive course of behavior modification which may include therapy, medication, and oversight. centers worldwide. Each step of the 12-step programA 12 step program includes 12 steps of recovery to help those struggling with substance addictions or behavioral addictions. The 12 steps are also used in programs dedicated to helping loved ones of addicts. 12 step programs include 12 step meetings where members go to share their experience strengt... serves a specific purpose in helping addicts recover from addiction.
The steps build on each other and encourage individuals to develop specific characteristics which facilitate recoveryThe process by which addicts attempt to break the hold a certain substance or behavior has on their lives. This can refer to participation in a wide variety of methods. What they all have in common, is a sense that life is improving and the addict is regaining control.. The first step is to admit that one is powerless over alcoholAn organic compound used in many products, most notably intoxicating drinks. Alcohol addiction is known as alcoholism. The first 12-step program was devised to deal with that malady. or the addictive behavior and that their life has become unmanageable. The steps progress to encourage individuals to take a fearless moral inventoryStep 4 recommends the addict conduct “a searching and fearless moral inventory.” This involves coming to terms with the flaws which preceded addiction and those that came as a result of it. of themselves, make amends for harm caused, and continue to take personal inventory and make changes as needed. The final step is to have a spiritual awakening and carry the messageThe 12th step advises addicts to “carry the message to alcoholics, and practice these principles in all our affairs.” This involves taking on service work, helping newcomers, being sponsors, and living a full and sober life. of recovery to others.