Why Is The 12 Step Program So Popular?
Addiction and alcoholism are diseases that can affect any age group and transcends gender and races. Addiction and alcoholism are the causes for most of the court cases seen in the world today. Hence, it is a very real problem that society needs to deal with urgently. Spiritual treatment of these problems aims at a holistic healing thus making it very popular. The goal of this therapy is not just abstinence but a total lifestyle change so that the patient can lead a normal life. The 12 step program incorporates elements of spirituality in the recovery process and has been adopted by several rehabilitation groups for the benefit of addicts..
The 12 Step Program was developed by AA in the 1930s and incorporates a set of guidelines that form a strategy for recovery. The addicts are encouraged to admit to their addiction and that one cannot control the addiction. They need the help of God to overcome the obstacles. They are made to examine past errors with the help of a sponsor who is an experienced member. They are then encouraged to make amends for these errors. Once this hurdle is past, addicts can learn new code of conduct to rebuild their lives and go back into mainstream society. After successfully reintegrating back into society these members are encouraged to help others in the same situation to beat their addictions. These therapy groups are more often known as fellowships to encourage bonds within the group. Everybody is instrumental in helping each other. The importance of family support systems is also stressed.
The 12 step program is accompanied by the 12 traditions that provide the guidelines for group governance, for anything like alcohol addiction to cigarette addiction. The groups are encouraged to be autonomous and never lose sight of their goals to help people in need. The 12 step program is an ongoing process and needs to be practiced everyday in order to be effective. Addiction is not something that can be eradicated completely therefore, strict vigilance must be maintained so that the patient does not relapse.
Spiritual healing centers thus focus on the influence of a higher power to help patients get back on track with their lives. They are encouraged to turn to god for healing and forgiveness. The patients are given tremendous support so that they are able to look at their lives and analyze their mistakes. Faith in god reassures them that they are not alone no matter what the circumstance and that god’s love and mercy can help them face any situation. This will help them achieve happiness in their lives. Families are also brought in so that the patient can have the support system he needs for the path of recovery. Maintaining good relationships is vital so making and retaining strong bonds with family and peers are actively encouraged. Members help each other out and people who have successfully applied the therapy in their lives are encouraged to come back to the group so that they can motivate the patients.