12-step rehab programs are a very popular option when it comes to addiction recovery and for good reason. However, there are many different types of addiction recovery programs you can take advantage of, depending on your preferences and your addiction history. Before making a decision, it is essential that you do your research, as the program you choose can have a big impact on your recovery success. For many 12-step programs, the only requirement for participation is a desire to stop using alcohol or drugs.
In this post, we explore the differences between non-12-step vs 12-step rehab programs and their benefits. We will also go over the different factors that can impact which self-help group is most suitable for your situation.
Understanding 12-Step Programs
12-step programs have been around since Alcoholics Anonymous was created in the 1930s, creating a reliable structure for those battling addiction. Today, there are several different types of twelve-step programs, including Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Families Anonymous (FA) for family members, and more.
The first twelve-step program was (unsurprisingly) based on the twelve steps and twelve traditions: a structured, step-by-step approach to recovery that guides individuals through mutual support, reflection, and spiritual growth. This has remained a core pillar of other twelve-step programs and supports thousands of individuals recovering from substance abuse disorders.
Here are the twelve traditions and steps that, when summarized, include:
- Admitting to being powerless over alcohol
- Believing in a Power greater than oneself
- Making a decision to submit to a Higher Power
- Completing a “searching and fearless moral inventory”
- Admitting “character defects” such as illicit drug use or alcohol misuse
- Having God remove “all these defects of character”
- Asking the higher power to remove shortcomings
- Writing a list of people who have been harmed by addictive behaviors, such as family members
- Making direct amends whenever possible, unless doing so would further harm such people
- Taking a continuous “moral inventory” of unhelpful behaviors, with the wrong promptly admitted to others
- Seeking God or a Higher Power through continuous prayer and medication
- Sharing this spiritual awakening with other alcoholics, as well as practicing these principles “in all our affairs”
The primary purpose of a twelve-step program is to help an individual overcome addictive disorders. An experienced member, also known as a Sponsor, will help new members walk through the process of admitting powerlessness, seeking a higher power, and making amends.
Regular meeting attendance and consistent practice of the steps are important for sustained recovery. New members are encouraged to integrate into the group and adopt the recovery principles to control one’s alcoholism or drug abuse behaviors.
Notice that twelve-step programs have a strong religious nature, which makes things like church, prayer, and spiritual awakening an important part of this recovery option. However, the organization reiterates that all people and religions are welcome. The only stipulation is that members are genuinely searching for help and willing to pursue a new life beyond addiction.
Benefits of 12-Step Programs
12-step rehab programs have a long history of providing a variety of benefits for those starting their sobriety journey. One of the main benefits is that there is strong community support, which helps individuals to stay accountable and encouraged.
Another benefit is that they can help with a wide range of addictions, including alcohol, drug, gambling, behavioral, and medication addictions. Regular participation in 12-step programs has been linked to longer periods of sobriety, supporting sustained recovery outcomes.
Twelve-step programs are also highly structured, helping you to reclaim your life and move forward with direction and a renewed sense of purpose. They may be especially helpful during early recovery by providing crucial support and structure when individuals are most vulnerable to relapse.
Finally, because 12-step rehab programs have been around for so long, they are very accessible and can be found pretty much everywhere.
To summarize: The 12-step model has had a long history of proven success in helping individuals maintain long-term sobriety.
Understanding Non-12-Step Programs
Non-12-step rehab programs are also available to those who want to recover from addiction, especially if they are not interested in the spiritual aspect of the 12-step model. Non-12-step programs often provide a more science-based treatment approach, offering more practical strategies focused on what the individual can do within their own lives to maintain sobriety.
There are several different types of non-twelve-step programs available, including SMART Recovery, Women for Sobriety, and Moderation Management.
Here are some of the main features you may notice compared to non-12-step rehab programs:
- Self-empowerment
- Self-reliance
- Individualized approach
- Life skills development
- Moderation rather than complete abstinence
- Therapeutic treatments
To summarize: non-twelve-step programs do not rely on the twelve traditions and focus more on self-recovery rather than communing with a Higher Power.
Benefits of Non-12-Step Programs
Depending on your preferences and personal history, you may benefit more from the secular approach that non-12-step programs provide. They do not rely on the spiritual aspect of traditional 12-step programs and also focus more attentively on psychological support (particularly beneficial for those who have co-occurring mental health disorders).
Another benefit is that non-12-step programs can provide a more customized approach that doesn’t have the strict structure of other 12-step programs. This makes it more adaptable to each individual so that their treatment plan can more accurately reflect their needs.
Additionally, individuals may feel less social stigma when they choose a non-12-step program since 12-step programs are so widely recognized. They are often integrated into comprehensive substance abuse treatment plans to address the full range of an individual’s needs.
Which Program is Right For You?
Now that you know the difference between non-12-step versus 12-step rehab programs, how do you choose the right option for your situation?
Choosing the right recovery program is an important step in the right direction when it comes to long-term sobriety. For many people, the right program can have a huge impact on their ability to maintain recovery long-term after the program has ended.
Here are some things to consider before you sign up for a treatment program.
Personal Beliefs
Ultimately, your personal beliefs will be the biggest deciding factor when it comes to non-12-step versus 12-step rehab programs. This is because traditional 12-step programs have a strong spiritual aspect that may or may not align with your personal beliefs.
For example, most twelve-step programs focus on making amends with others by escaping self-centeredness and asking a Higher Power, such as God, for help. AA members may frequently discuss “conscious contact” during meetings, which is the process of communing with a Higher Power through prayer, meditation, reflection, and similar processes.
In contrast, programs that do not focus on the twelve steps typically focus on scientific approaches to overcoming addictive disorders. Instead, a SMART Recovery meeting may involve the discussion of evidence-based processes such as the DEADS tool, DISARM Method, and concepts such as Enlightened Self-interest. There is little sanctioned discussion of “conscious contact” or other spiritual awakenings.
Structure and Support Needs
Aside from the spiritual side of these programs, non-12-step and 12-step programs also have different levels of structure and support. 12-step programs are highly structured and broken down into steps towards recovery that have a long track record of success. On the other hand, non-12-step programs are more personalized, which may be preferable if you want to take your own path.
Non-12-step programs also provide more individualized attention and have less focus on community support. This is the opposite of traditional 12-step programs, which focus much more on community support rather than individual support.
These differences do not necessarily make one option better than the other, but they can have a big impact on which program is the best fit for your needs.
Personal History
You also need to take your personal history into account before deciding on a treatment program. For instance, you may have tried a 12-step program in the past and found that it didn’t work for you or vice versa.
Remember: those with more complex addiction histories may also prefer non-step programs due to their evidence-based nature.
Type of Treatment
Different types of treatments are more suitable for different individuals, which should influence your decision. Some people benefit more from the straightforward and classic nature of the 12-step approach, while others would benefit more from the variety of non-12-step treatment options.
Keep in mind that choosing one or the other option does not necessarily limit your ability to utilize other recovery resources. In fact, more and more programs are adding additional tools and features that allow you to take advantage of things like life skills training, family therapy, individual therapy, art therapy, and mindfulness practices.
How Do You Choose Between Both Options?
Rehab programs play a crucial role in helping individuals break free from substance abuse and addiction. However, some types of programs may be more suitable for your lifestyle, beliefs, and personality type. With this in mind, which option is right for you?
The 12-step program, with its emphasis on spiritual principles, personal inventory, and making amends, has demonstrated efficacy in supporting recovery for countless people. It may be suitable for those wanting closer spiritual connections, stronger structure, and more widely available program types.
Support groups such as AA and NA foster peer support, accountability, and a sense of belonging, which are essential for sustained abstinence and long-term success. This rehab program may be more suitable for those who want more crosstalk in self-help groups, as well as access to evidence-based therapies such as motivational enhancement therapy for substance abuse recovery.
Get Addiction Treatment Help at The Lakes Treatment Center
Taking that initial step and joining a rehab program is the most important thing you will do in your journey towards sobriety. However, it doesn’t stop there as recovery is a lifelong journey that you will always be working toward. For many in recovery, 12-step rehab programs provide the principles they need to maintain long-term sobriety and to build a fulfilling life.
At The Lakes Treatment Center, we provide a variety of recovery programs that address each individual’s physical, mental, and spiritual needs. For those who are open to it, our therapies include religious services and Bible studies that can help provide additional support for those in our 12-step rehab programs.
Are you ready to take that leap and join a 12-step rehab program? Contact us today at The Lakes Treatment Center to learn more about the different programs and therapies we provide.
