12th Step of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
AA Step 12 is the last step of the Alcoholics Anonymous program. This step requires you to have a spiritual awakening that came as a result of completing the previous 11 steps of AA, carry the message of AA to others in need, and practice the principles of AA in all of your daily affairs. Many people find the 12th Step of Alcoholics Anonymous to be one of the most challenging because it forces them to publicly acknowledge their struggles with alcohol when delivering the AA message to others.
Spiritual Awakening and Delivering the AA Message
As you approach Alcoholics Anonymous Step 12, remember that you have prepared for this step by completing 11 previous steps. With the help and support of your sponsor and the AA fellowship, you can successfully complete this step the same way you completed all of the other steps.
After completing the 12th Step of Alcoholics Anonymous some people feel a great sense of relief, as though they have graduated the AA program. Although it is important to feel proud of your accomplishments, it is just as important to remember that recovery is a lifelong journey and your participation in Alcoholics Anonymous isn’t over. However, for some people, the sense of completing the AA program brings back their urge to drink. Some people feel that by completing Alcoholics Anonymous Step 12 they have proven that they are capable of living a sober life and can drink alcohol in moderation.
Alcohol Dependency Treatment
If you start to feel yourself slipping back into self-destructive behaviors, you may want to pursue additional alcohol dependency treatment. Some people who complete Step 12 are resistant to pursuing additional treatment. The reasons for this resistance vary from one person to another, but it is common for people to feel a sense of shame and guilt for having completed the 12th Step of Alcoholics Anonymous yet still requiring more treatment. Although this is a normal feeling, it is important that you remember that admitting you need help is a sign of strength. Asking for the help you need is a sign of immense courage.
If you feel yourself slipping back into addiction, gain the support of your sponsor, AA fellowship, and loved ones. These people care about you and want to help you succeed. Ask them to help and support you as you pursue additional treatment options. This additional treatment will not take the place of the AA program. Instead, the treatment will complement the AA program. Many treatment programs utilize Alcoholics Anonymous as part of the treatment regimen.
Finding Help for Alcohol Addiction
Help for alcohol addiction is easy to find, but it is not always easy to ask for. Overcoming an addiction to or a dependency on alcohol can be a long and sometimes frustrating process, but if you’ve made the decision to stop drinking you’ve crossed the most important hurdle in your recovery.
If you’re ready to get help with alcohol addiction, visit the AA website to find a support group near you. There are also many secular programs that may help you achieve or maintain recovery.
However, if you or a loved one need detox support or addiction treatment, you may benefit from attending treatment at a dedicated rehab facility. American Addiction Centers (AAC) operates treatment facilities nationwide, with navigators standing by 24/7 to help you get admitted into treatment. Our addiction helpline may also be able to help connect you with rehabs near you. To speak to an admissions navigator, call .
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