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Get Started with the Canyon Addiction Treatment Center

Our Professional staff is here to get you or your loved one started on the road to lasting recovery.  Contact us today at 424.465.5182.

What Are the 12 Steps of Recovery?

Man crosses arms as he talks about the 12 steps of recovery

At The Canyon, we believe in providing comprehensive and personalized treatment plans. We aim to address both mental health and substance use issues in our clients. One approach that can be effective in achieving lasting recovery is the utilization of the 12 steps of recovery. To learn about our 12-step rehab program, call us at 424.465.5182 today.

What Are the 12 Steps of Recovery?

The 12 steps of recovery were first introduced by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Since then, these steps have been adapted and utilized by various recovery programs to address a wide range of addictions. Here are the 12 steps of recovery:

  1. Admitting Powerlessness – Acknowledging that addiction has become unmanageable and accepting the need for outside help.
  2. Believing in a Higher Power – Recognizing the presence of a higher power or spiritual connection that can provide strength and guidance.
  3. Turning Over Control – Surrendering to the care of a higher power and being willing to let go of control over one’s addiction.
  4. Taking a Moral Inventory – Conducting an honest self-examination to identify weaknesses, resentments, and past wrongdoings.
  5. Admitting Wrongs – Sharing the results of the moral inventory with oneself, a higher power, and another trusted person.
  6. Being Ready for Change – Becoming willing to let go of negative behaviors and being open to personal growth and transformation.
  7. Asking for Help – Humbly asking a higher power to help their shortcomings.
  8. Making Amends – Making a list of individuals harmed during addiction and being willing to make amends wherever possible, except when doing so would cause harm.
  9. Making Direct Amends – Actively making amends to those who were harmed unless doing so would cause further harm.
  10. Continuing Inventory – Engaging in regular self-reflection and promptly admitting to mistakes or shortcomings.
  11. Seeking Spiritual Awareness – Seeking a deeper connection with a higher power through prayer, meditation, or other spiritual practices.
  12. Helping Others – Sharing the experience, strength, and hope gained through recovery with others in need.

The 12 steps of recovery provide a roadmap for individuals on their journey to sobriety.

How the 12 Steps of Addiction Recovery Work

These steps work by addressing the psychological, emotional, and spiritual aspects of addiction. Here’s how they facilitate recovery:

Acceptance and Surrender

The first three steps encourage individuals to acknowledge the reality of their addiction, accept their powerlessness, and be open to seeking help from a higher power or support system.

Self-Reflection and Growth

Steps 4 to 7 involve:

  • Deep personal reflection
  • Identifying character defects
  • Working towards change and growth

Often, this can be achieved through the guidance of a higher power

Amends and Forgiveness

Steps 8 to 10 focus on repairing relationships and making amends for past wrongs. These steps promote healing and forgiveness for both individuals in recovery and those affected by addiction.

Spiritual Connection

Steps 11 and 12 emphasize the importance of developing a spiritual connection. They encourage engaging in practices that promote self-awareness, mindfulness, and ongoing personal growth.

Benefits of the 12 Steps of Recovery

The 12 steps of recovery offer several benefits for individuals seeking sobriety:

Support and Community

Engaging in the 12-step process provides individuals with a supportive community of peers. These new friends understand their struggles and can offer guidance, encouragement, and accountability.

Personal Growth and Healing

The steps promote self-reflection, acceptance, and forgiveness, facilitating personal growth and healing from past traumas and negative patterns of behavior

Holistic Approach

The 12-step process addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of addiction, providing a well-rounded approach to recovery.

Sustainable Sobriety

By incorporating ongoing practices such as self-reflection, amends, and helping others, the 12 steps promote long-term sobriety. They can build a foundation for a fulfilling life beyond addiction.

Call The Canyon Today

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, consider the power of the 12 steps of recovery. Contact The Canyon at 424.465.5182 to learn more.

Take the first step towards a healthier and more fulfilling life by reaching out to our experienced team. Together, we can guide you on your journey to recovery, helping you overcome addiction and embrace a brighter future.