Alcoholics Anonymous was not the first group to provide support to addicts and alcoholics in search of recovery. Bill Wilson, one of the founders of AA, was inspired to create the organization and elaborated twelve steps based on the principles of the six steps provided by the Oxford Group. All of the same principles of the Oxford Group were absorbed into AA and founded the twelve steps. Alcoholics Anonymous is the founding father of the 12-step program. The primary text Alcoholics Anonymous, mostly referred to as “The Big Book” has been translated into hundreds of languages as AA is a global network. AA promotes abstinence from all mind-altering substances and encourages following a program of spiritual progression in which one lives by spiritual principles. Regularly attending AA meetings, which are available all times of day all over the world, online, and by phone, helping others, and being of service are parts of the AA program.
Narcotics Anonymous and Other Twelve Step Groups
Narcotics Anonymous is the sister 12-step program to Alcoholics Anonymous. Some people find that they don’t feel comfortable in Alcoholics Anonymous when they identify more as an addict than an alcoholic. Most who are addicted to drugs have also been addicted to alcohol, but alcohol might not have been their primary problem. Narcotics Anonymous is steadily growing to be as big as AA and is just about as available. Other substance-specific groups include Cocaine Anonymous and Heroin Anonymous.
There are numerous other 12-step programs that people incorporate into their personal program of recovery to focus on some of the “ism’s” as they called, which come with addiction and alcoholism. Programs like Codependent Anonymous, Food Addicts Anonymous, and Overeaters Anonymous can be helpful in gaining support for other areas of struggle. Another widely popular 12-step group is Al-Anon, a program for the family members, friends, and partners of those recovering, or not recovering, from addiction and alcoholism.
Alternative Support Groups
Not everyone identifies with the spiritual program of the 12 steps. Other programs exist that have their own pillars of values, morals, and approaches to recovery. Including regular meetings, sponsor support, and a structured way to recover, these programs are still effective in helping people find peace and balance in their life. Some of the most popular include:
- SMART Recovery
- Celebrate Recovery
- Life Ring Recovery
Choosing meetings and outside support which work for you is a journey. Hired Power is here to help guide you through your journey of creating a lifestyle that brings recovery home. Our dynamic team is made up of experienced recovery professionals who live their personal recovery every day and can help you create a program for living that works for you. Call us today for information: 800.910.9299.
