Most 12-step recovery programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Cocaine Anonymous (CA), focus on the individual dealing with addiction and recovery. This is understandable since they require assistance. Families of those with addiction also need support. Fortunately for them, twelve-step programs are available and cater directly to families with loved ones who are recovering.
Evoke Waltham offers a 12-step rehab program that provides families with the support and guidance they need. The program can help family members understand their loved one’s addiction and how to best support them during recovery. This includes learning about the mental health condition model of addiction, managing stress and emotions, developing healthy boundaries and communication skills, and understanding relapse prevention and ways to prevent or stop a relapse if one is occurring. Don’t hesitate to contact us today at 866.276.1920 to learn more about our 12-step program for families.
Twelve-Step Program for Family Members of Addiction and Substance Use
Al-Anon is a twelve-step program that is like AA but specifically for those people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking issue. This can be anyone from a family member, spouse, friend, or co-worker. The 12 steps of Al-Anon are almost word for word, the same as those from the 12-step program of AA, and have been used as a tool for spiritual growth and healing for millions of people affected by someone else’s alcohol addiction. Studying and practicing these steps is an essential part of progress in Al-Anon. The principles they represent are universal and applicable to anyone.
12-Steps of Al-Anon
The twelve steps of Al-Anon are as follows:
- We admitted we were powerless over alcohol — that our lives had become unmanageable
- Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity
- Decided to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him
- Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves
- Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs
- Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character
- Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings
- Made a list of all persons we had harmed and became willing to make amends to them all
- Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when doing so would injure them or others
- Continued to take personal inventory and, when we were wrong, promptly admitted it
- Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out
- Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others and practice these principles in all our affairs
Al-Anon meetings can help friends and family of addicts, even if their loved one doesn’t seek help.
How 12-Step Programs for Families Can Benefit You and Your Family
Coping with someone’s drinking is tough, but participating in a twelve-step program can teach you practical ways to manage better and change your behaviors. It may be challenging, but Al-Anon allows you to learn from other people’s experiences who have been through similar problems as you.
Alcohol addiction is a family condition that affects everyone, not just the person with the addiction. Seeking help can assist with understanding this impact. By listening to others speak at meetings, you can listen to how they came to understand their role in this family condition and how they could put themselves in a better position to be in a positive role.
Al-Anon’s Alateen fellowship helps young people affected by someone else’s drinking. It offers a safe space for teens to connect, cope, and heal.
How to Find 12-Step Programs for Families
Finding 12-step programs for families affected by a loved one’s addiction can be relatively straightforward, with resources available both locally and online. Here are some steps to begin with:
- Search local listings – Many communities host regular meetings for groups like Al-Anon and Alateen. These can usually be found through local directories, community bulletin boards, or by reaching out to local health or social services offices.
- Online search – Websites for organizations like Al-Anon often have dedicated search tools that help you find meetings in your area.
- Talk to professionals – Healthcare providers, such as Evoke Waltham, and therapists specializing in addiction recovery can often recommend suitable programs.
- Reach out to support networks – If you know someone who’s been through similar experiences, ask them for advice or recommendations. Joining online forums and support groups can also provide valuable insights.
Remember, the most crucial step is reaching out for help. You’re not alone, and there are resources available to support you.
Contact Evoke Waltham and Learn More About Our Twelve-Step Programs
If you are unsure whether a 12-step program is right for you, ask yourself, “Has your life been affected by someone else’s drinking?” If the answer is yes, then a 12-step program can offer a lot of help for you. If your loved one is still struggling with addiction, our programs are tailored to guide individuals through recovery.
At Evoke Waltham, we have trained professionals available to answer any questions you may have before embarking on your journey with us. We understand how difficult this time is and are here to help in any way we can. Contact us today at 866.276.1920 to learn more about our 12-step program for families and begin the recovery process.
