When you think of 12 step programs, you automatically think of Alcoholics Anonymous, which is where it originated. The basis of the 12 step programs can be used in a variety of different situations, but is widely used in programs that treat addictions. The 12 step program has traditionally been based on Christian ideology but can be changed to meet each individual’s recovery needs. According to www.12step.org, the steps are as follows: 1) powerlessness, 2) hope, 3) faith, 4) inventory, 5) honesty, 6) preparation, 7) letting go, 8) humility, 9) forgiveness, 10) continuous inventory, 11) conscious contact, and 12) carrying the message. Those people who are in recovery need to focus on each step individually and not move on to the next until the previous step has been completed. These steps or a variation thereof are used in most 12 step programs, and challenge the person in recovery to stay on task and address the issues that are destroying them.

12 step programs are structured so that everyone is working toward the same goal, even though their situations may be very different. The 12 steps bring together all of the issues surrounding the addiction and the subsequent resolution of what is a very destructive cycle. Depending on what type problems are being addressed, and the level of severity, 12 step programs are worked at the individual’s pace, and not something that is given a strict time frame for completion. Support offered by others in recovery as well as by sponsors, counselors, friends and families, and others, is instrumental in completing the 12 step program successfully. Completing the steps is challenging for everyone, and may even seem impossible for some, but once a person seeks recovery and chooses a 12 step program, he or she has made a commitment to rediscover themselves physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Some people seeking treatment and recovery may not feel comfortable with 12 step programs that use a Christian based approach, and this is alright. Many 12 step programs encourage people to interpret the steps in a way that works for them. Various treatment facilities and recovery programs use a non-biased interpretation of the 12 steps and encourage participants to complete the program in accordance with their own beliefs. 12 step programs have proven to be very effective, and have helped many people turn their lives around for good. Recovery is a constant process, and 12 step programs encourage participants to continue to work the steps even after they have conquered their addiction, to keep them focused and on task.