12-Step program towards a new self
Alcoholism and drug addiction among the youth has become a problem not just for them but also for society which bears the impact of addiction.
Those under the influence of alcoholism as well as drug abuse can be given a new life and a new perspective, which will help them get back to normalcy. The 12-Step Program is a holistic program wherein, a spiritual approach is adapted to help an alcohol or a drug addict return to normalcy.
The 12-Step Program which was conceptualized way back in 1930s, still holds good and is still universally acclaimed as the most effective de-addiction program the world over. Over a period of time, it has gained wide acclaim and is being used to treat various other ailments like addiction, alcoholism, obsession, mental or physical disorders, defects and even disability problems. It has its roots in tradition and spirituality with humanity as a way to a better life and relationships with other humans who form a part of the community one lives in and with God.
In the 12-Step Program, the human structure seeks representation in three dimensions — spiritual, physical and mental, which forms the foundation of the program. The best description of the physical dimension is irritation or a body reaction caused due to excessive consumption of any kind of substance, not acceptable to the human body.
Any disturbance in the physical dimension leads to physical ailments arising out of alcoholism as well as addiction. The cognitive processes that lead to compulsive behavior come under the ambit of the mental dimension, which may lead to insomnia, depression, suicidal tendency etc. The spiritual dimension manifests itself in the malady caused due to disturbance in other two dimensions.
The 12 Step Program involves twelve steps that help with an inner growth of oneself. The steps are nothing but a set of valued principles to be followed in each person’s life. They have to be practiced everyday. These steps may lead to a total freedom from whatever ailment that one is suffering from.
It may be taken up as a group or individually. If taken in a group then results are much better as each member supports the other.
The 12-Step Program includes the original twelve steps as published by Alcoholics Anonymous. Each step is undertaken one at a time.
- The first step makes one realize and admit his dependency on alcohol.
- In the second, the patients are made to believe that problems can be worked out and they can live a better life.
- The third step is the realization that God alone can help them out of these problems.
- An addict carries out a moral introspection of him and admits the wrongs he has done to his friends and family.
- Steps five to nine include the removal of anger and asking help from God and also asking for forgiveness from all who were hurt due to the patient’s shortcomings.
- Ten and eleven include improving bonding with God through constant prayers.
- The last step involves the final outcome of spiritual awakening.
The 12-Step Program is a method of self-realization and development through plugging into a power source that may be God and the strength he gives or the support and helpings of the group to which the addict belongs while in therapy. The addict moves at his own pace in the correct direction, following each step meticulously and possibly experiences a spiritual experience on the way to emancipation from drugs.