12-Step Programme | Benefits & How It’s Used

At Linwood House, we introduce you to the 12 steps and explain how each step works, within a group setting. 12-step work can be complex so we break these down into relatable examples and help you put targets in place through open discussion and education. Everyone works through the steps at their own pace, using the connection of the group to support one another and learn from others that may be ahead in the programme.

The group component is an important element of this form of treatment, helping to create an inclusive environment where others who are on the same path to recovery can share their experiences. In order to continue working the 12 steps clients are encouraged to attend fellowship meetings with a view to finding a sponsor as part of their ongoing recovery plan.

The method is based on cultivating motivation and believing that you can change and be freed from your addiction. Incorporating spirituality, faith and self-determination, the 12-step celebrates the individual behind the addiction and encourages you to find your inner strength. You are encouraged to celebrate other group members’ successes while talking openly about your fears and relapses, as you can find solace and advice in others.

Each step is concerned with a different aspect of recovery. While different groups may interpret slightly different meanings, there is a strong thread which runs through all 12-step communities.

Step one: Acceptance

We encourage you to acknowledge your lack of control over your addiction.

Step two: Faith

You are encouraged to accept that there is some higher power or person who can help you through the recovery process.

Step three: Surrender

This part of the process involves accepting that you can only overcome your addiction with the help of others.

Step six: Let go of the past

We support you in letting go of the negative behaviours that lead to drug abuse and embracing healthier behaviours.

Step seven: Practise humility

Here, we encourage you to ask for and accept help in overcoming your addiction and the triggers that caused it.

Step eight: Decide to make amends

We will aid you in acknowledging all the harms caused by your addiction and creating a plan to begin addressing them.

Step eleven: What is your purpose?

We encourage you to embrace practices such as meditation to provide strength and guidance throughout your recovery.

Step twelve: Share the message

During the final step, you are encouraged to share your experience with others who are struggling with addiction and to maintain your commitment to the 12-steps throughout your recovery.

There is no set timeline for the 12-step process; rather, you work at your own pace and are free to remain in the group as long as necessary. Many people are initially advised to take part in 90 fellowship meetings over 90 days, most of which may be attended once you finish your programme. This may feel like a significant commitment of time, but it is suggested to give you the best chances at a full and sustained recovery.

Devoting time and energy to these group sessions is a brilliant way to refocus. We encourage you to maintain good communication with your group beyond your stay at Linwood House to keep you on the right path.

It’s important to accept from the beginning that recovery is a lifelong journey. The journey will be challenging at times but beautiful at others. You will learn about yourself and the world around you in ways you could never hope to while in the grips of addiction. The 12 steps are a guide which you can travel through at your own pace, without any sense of competition. It is not a race to get to the end, rather it’s a chance to build a better, stronger sense of yourself and your ambitions for life.

12-Step programmes are a globally recognised process which can be found in many different forms. Although there are many forms of treatment for addiction recovery, the 12-step programme is repeatedly found to be one of the most effective methods.

It is thought that the emphasis on self-determination, empowerment and belief is a significant factor in success rates. Attending a 12-step programme is not going to heal you from addiction immediately. Much of the work comes from the individual and their own sense of willpower. However, it can provide you with a stable community on which you can depend on difficult days.

You will be able to access our 12-step support regardless of which rehab programme you are enrolled in at Linwood House. Our therapists will guide you through each step and help you incorporate them into your daily routine. We will also help you utilise the 12-step ‘Big Book’, which provides guidance and structure throughout your recovery. This will culminate in a personal 12-step plan, which you will continue to work on after rehab.

If you are ready to embark on recovery, contact us at Linwood House to discuss your options. Starting out with addiction treatment can be a scary process, but there are people who can help you through it. Our team of experts are specialists in addiction recovery, and they are ready to invite you into the community.