The Benefits of 12-Step Meetings

Anyone who has successfully lived a life in recovery can tell you the benefits of 12-Step meetings. After all, addiction is a monster of a disease that’s sole purpose is to leave you broken, beaten, and alone. Anyone going through the struggle of addiction can tell you that. But there is light at the end of the tunnel. Help for addiction to any substance is available to you. Getting that help, and then maintaining your recovery journey through a 12-Step program can help to build a life you never thought was possible for you, especially while suffering through the chains of addiction to drugs and alcohol.

What is a 12-Step Program?

Originating from the program of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), 12-Step programs have evolved over the years to accommodate any and all facets of addiction. The steps of AA have been adapted by many different 12-Step programs because they are tried and proven to help those who are struggling with addiction of any kind. 12-Step programs offer support from people that come from all walks of life, but have one common goal: to stay clean and sober. The benefits of 12-Step meetings and programs are endless, and utilizing the different fellowships will provide a greater advantage than trying to tough it out on your own.

How Do 12-Step Meetings Work?

Every 12-Step meeting is different. They have their own formats, and have their own guidelines for running the meeting. However, one of the benefits of 12-Step meetings is that you are free to attend any and all of the meetings you would like to, and find what works for you.

Most meetings begin with an opening prayer, then there are different formats for the meeting time. There are topic discussions, literature discussion, open discussions. There are also speaker meetings in which someone shares their experience, strength, and hope in recovery. Then there is usually a closing prayer to round out the meeting and close it up.

Each 12-Step fellowship has its own way of doing things, and these formats can vary group to group within a fellowship. But the common goal is to help addicts and alcoholics stay clean and sober for another day.

The Benefits of 12-Step Meetings

The benefits of 12-Step meetings are endless. There are so many ways someone can be positively impacted by these meetings, and attending them can only enhance your life. Apart from the fact that you can grow in recovery through meetings, you can make healthier meaningful friendships, openly and honestly talk about your feelings, and you can learn to live life without drugs and alcohol. Here are some other benefits of 12-Step meetings.

Honesty

Being able to take an honest look at the role drugs and alcohol play in your life is one of the benefits of 12-Step meetings. Talking about it and not having to worry about judgment makes this so much easier, especially for those in early recovery.

Accountability

Service work is a part of all 12-Step meetings and fellowship. Taking on a commitment, whether it’s making coffee or running the meeting, can help you to hold yourself accountable. Knowing you have somewhere to be at a certain time every day will play a part in your decision when contemplating picking up a drink or a drug.

Connection

One of the biggest benefits of 12-Step meetings is connection. Making new friends, who are on the same path and like minded provides support and love from people who know exactly what it is you are going through- because they have been there too.

Support

Early recovery can be a trying time. Gaining support from people in recovery is a huge benefit. You can feel less alone, and grow to be a part of a group of friends!

They are Free

It costs nothing to become a member of any 12-Step meeting, they are free and solely there to provide a safe, judgment free space to share your thoughts and feelings so that you can make it through the day clean and sober.

Help for Addiction in Louisville, KY

When it comes to addiction, many are left with nothing but pain and heartache once they have reached the point of seeking help. That is the answer though, seeking help. Knowing that there is help, and taking advantage of the help that is available is the best decision most addicts and alcoholics can make for themselves. If you or a loved one are struggling, you are not alone. At Louisville Addiction Center, we help people who are in your shoes find hope for the future with our array of addiction rehab programs. Our team of professionals can guide you through the process

Let us help you as you give yourself the gift of recovery from addiction. Contact us today and begin your next chapter of life.