Addiction is a crippling disease that doesn’t have a cure. Therefore, addicts continue to struggle with alcohol and drug cravings after rehab. Suddenly, patients are thrust back into their normal lives full of triggers. Ultimately, many relapse or briefly start using substances again. In fact, the National Institute on Drug Abuse states up to two-thirds of people reuse after treatment. Fortunately, there are aftercare options to ease the transition from inpatient to real life. For example, 12 step programs guide groups toward sober lifestyles together. Since the 1930s, rehab centers have used 12 step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous to reduce relapses. Above all, the 12 step philosophy involves accepting and finding strength in a Supreme Being. Whether you’re religious or not, 12 step addiction recovery in Houston can help you achieve overall wellness.
Outline of the 12 Addiction Recovery Steps
First, 12 step members will confess to becoming powerless to drugs or alcohol at their Texas drug addiction treatment center. Thus, you’ll admit your addiction out loud and move past denial. Second, you must accept that there’s a Higher Power than yourself. Whereas Christian based rehabs talk of God, other programs are more spiritual than religious. Third, 12 step addiction recovery in Houston teaches addicts the Serenity Prayer. To explain, this short verse asks for the Higher Power’s wisdom and courage to change. Fourth, reflecting and writing down a moral inventory is required. Here, you’ll confront feelings and past traumas that are hard to think about. Next, the fifth step entails humbly seeking forgiveness for your sins. In addition, you’ll select a supportive friend to open up to. Afterward, members work through seven more vital stages, including:
- Replacing your character flaws with positive traits
- Asking a Higher Power to remove your weaknesses
- Listing the people you’ve hurt during addiction
- Apologizing to each person and making amends
- Keeping a journal to check your ongoing progress
- Practicing meditation to improve a spiritual connection
- Encouraging others through their addiction recovery
Benefits of 12 Step Addiction Treatment
Truly, 12 step programs build a lasting support network to stay on track. Usually, members have their sponsors on speed dial for when temptation strikes. Unlike most counselors, these mentors are available 24/7 to talk you down. Likewise, 12 step groups are made up of people going through the same process. Accordingly, you won’t feel judged or shamed by any peers. Altogether, you’ll work through shared emotions and experiences. Further, you’ll receive chips for milestones you meet. Of course, these small rewards have significant effects on how driven members are. Plus, most 12 step addiction recovery in Houston is free, so tight budgets aren’t a problem. If you’re shy, then there’s no pressure to speak at every meeting. However, you’ll likely learn social skills by bonding with experienced sponsors. A Texas 12 step based recovery center will help you determine how to manage life after leaving the facility.
Seek 12 Step Addiction Recovery in Houston
Overall, 12 step groups offer a helpful extra layer to inpatient rehab. Generally speaking, they’ll last less than 90 days, but provide lasting relapse prevention. In short, this aftercare approach aids members in loving themselves, others, and a Higher Power. Hence, joining 12 step addiction recovery in Houston instills the resolve you’ll need to conquer addiction for good.
