12 step addiction recovery programs

Our objective is to introduce residents to the benefits of participating in 12-Step programs. Twelve-step programs have long been an important part of the addiction recovery process and the foundation for many recovery programs. Serving people for more than 65 years, 12-step programs provide simple “tools for living” based on a set of principles and a reliance on the fellowship generated by people who share the same experiences, while offering their support as part of a lifelong process of recovery. We introduce our residents to this important network of support that has helped millions of people throughout its history.

Twelve-step groups assume an active role in the process of recovery, and in so doing, address three dimensions of the human person: physical, mental and spiritual. The last one is the most important. The 12-Step focus is on the affliction of the spiritual dimension – a focus that is intended to treat self-centeredness. The process begins in the first step as participants identify themselves as an alcoholic or an addict. The ultimate goal in completing the 12-Steps is to replace a self-centered mentality with key elements for a successful recovery.

All residents attend at least three 12-Step meetings each week during their stay at St. Joseph Institute. Some meetings are conducted on the grounds of the Institute, while other meetings are held in the local communities throughout the surrounding area. Transportation is provided for the entire group when attending meetings off site.

Key Elements of 12-Step Programs:

• Mutual help and mutual support are available to assist people in meeting common goals and preventing relapse.
• There is security in knowing that help is available everywhere and anytime people feel temptation.
• Those who attend meetings will get help in learning to accept personal responsibility – a lesson that can be difficult to learn.
• Twelve-step programs are the most commonly available support group and they have helped millions of people.
• Fellowship is an essential part of the program function.
• Twelve-step programs go beyond a selective application of their principles, providing an approach to living.