Anyone who has coped with a drug or alcohol addiction, or helped someone else with one, has heard of twelve-step programs. Initially conceived by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in the 1930s, the idea behind this approach is to slowly and methodically work through a series of actions. These actions are designed to culminate in the individual’s recovery from their addictions.
The subsequent popularity of AA’s methods inspired numerous iterations, all borrowing from the precepts of AA’s outline. However, the twelve-step approach is not without its fair share of critics. That is why modern “non-12-step rehab” approaches have been developed to address the shortfalls of the past.
Contact Gulf Breeze Recovery today at 833.551.2304 to learn why you should seek the non-12-step approach to a residential treatment program.
Problems with AA’s 12-Step Approach
Anyone who has struggled with a drug or alcohol addiction, or helped someone else with one, has heard of twelve-step programs. Initially conceived by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in the 1930s, the idea behind this approach is to slowly and methodically work through a series of actions. These actions are designed to culminate in the individual’s recovery from their addictions.
Over the years, both it and the spin-offs the approach inspired have gone through several updates and refreshes.
One thing that has never changed is the ongoing criticism that twelve-step methods receive. From inconsistent success rates to accusations of being almost of a religious nature, twelve-step groups have faced continual backlash since they started. Many attendees expressed unhappiness focusing on spirituality; others decried the lack of sufficient confidentiality. non-12-step rehab methods seek to avoid such pitfalls while offering effective alternatives.
The Rise of Non-12-Step Rehabilitation
Non-12-step rehab shares a few common characteristics with its AA predecessor. Both ideas promote abstinence from substance use. It should also be noted that, like traditional twelve-step programs, there is no unified non-12-step approach. Some versions feature elements of spirituality, while others do not.
As World Psychiatry points out, “Disorders are different from diseases.” Unlike AA and its offshoots, some non-12-step programs don’t all classify substance addiction as a brain disease. Primarily, this impacts how one thinks about substance abuse and their personal control over it. Non-12-step rehab encourages detoxification under the care of qualified medical personnel, whether in a residential setting or as an outpatient. The philosophy also supports the use of managing withdrawal with medication.
In addition, as with AA, there are support groups associated with non-12-step programs. These include (in alphabetical order):
- LifeRing Secular Recovery
- Moderation Management
- SMART Recovery
- SOS (Secular Organizations for Sobriety)
- Women for Sobriety
Choosing Between Traditional and Non-12-Step Rehab Options
As DrugAbuse.gov notes, “No single treatment is appropriate for everyone.” In collaboration with their loved ones, every person must decide, when applicable, which program is the most suitable for their unique circumstances. This can include factors like cost or location. At the end of the day, those caught in the cycle of addiction must opt for the program with the best odds of success in treating their issues and the most ongoing support for their lifestyle.
AA, NA, and similar programs feature compelling reasons for participating but simply aren’t effective for every person. non-12-step solutions are a viable alternative. These solution strategies can be highly conducive to a successful recovery process and the avoidance of relapsing into harmful habits.
The subsequent popularity of AA’s methods inspired numerous iterations, all borrowing from the precepts of AA’s outline. However, the twelve-step approach is not without its fair share of critics. That is why modern “non-12-step rehab” approaches have been developed to address the shortfalls of the past.
Reach Out to Gulf Breeze Recovery Today
If you or someone you care about struggles with ongoing alcohol or drug addiction or faces chronic relapse, contact Gulf Breeze Recovery at 833.551.2304. Our addiction experts can provide information or answer questions about our residential program, outpatient program, intensive outpatient program, and which of these can best fit your individual needs. These programs have helped many people overcome their addiction and embrace their new happy, healthy, substance-free lifestyle.
Unlike other treatment centers in Florida, Gulf Breeze Recovery is a non-12-step holistic drug and alcohol rehab that is changing the future of addiction treatment with its THRIVE® (Total Health Recovery) program focused on overcoming chronic relapse. Call now!
