When looking for alcohol recovery programs, you may be wondering: “What percentage of alcoholics recover?” There is no way of knowing the exact statistic, but it is reported that one-third of adults who were once dependent on alcohol are in full recovery. With that being said, the success of each type of treatment depends on the individual.
The 12-step program is included in almost 75% of treatment centers. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is responsible for pioneering the program’s philosophy. This involves helping addicted individuals achieve abstinence from substances by encouraging them to surrender to a higher power.
The 12-step program proves successful for many, but some struggle with the potential religious implications involved. Many treatment centers are aware of the issues some individuals may have with the program’s religious element. Thus, many centers offer an alternative to 12-step programs for those looking for a non-religious foundation for treatment and recovery.
The idea for the 12-step model originated in 1938. AA founder Bill Wilson developed the ideas for the program based on his experience with substance abuse. Wilson wrote about the positive effects he witnessed when people struggling with alcoholism expressed their stories in a group setting.
Initially, the 12 Steps came primarily from Christian inspiration, seeking the help of a higher power alongside the support of peers struggling with similar addiction issues. Wilson’s model is now used in a vast range of self-help programs, including Gamblers Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and Heroin Anonymous.
The 12-step model helps each individual maintain abstinence from their behaviors or substances of choice. Individuals in the program help each other by sharing experiences and support during meetings.
You may be wondering what percentage of alcoholics recover in this program. Studies show that the 12-step model is responsible for high levels of “flourishing.” Flourishing is what experts call positive mental health and its contribution to people’s long-term recovery. Studies show above 40% of people flourishing after three months and still nearly 40% after one year.
The same study shows those who stop using all substances have better mental health outcomes than those who continued using. The 12-step model encourages people to surrender their addiction, create new patterns, and understand their experiences.
A primary goal for the 12-step model is to help people build mental and emotional tools, such as:
The 12 steps outlined in Bill Wilson’s “Big Book” include:
The 12-step model has been adopted and modified countless times to fit various programs. The model is used in many alcohol recovery programs, but it also helps other treatments based on addiction. Many programs, like Narcotics Anonymous, use the steps exactly as they were conceived. Others alter the steps to fit specific needs or cultures.
Many variations stem from the religious aspects of the standard 12-step program. Many entities that are not Christian-related modify the model to fit a more secular preference.
Book an AppointmentFor some, the idea of basing their recovery on not being able to control their addiction may not be helpful. Many of these individuals, who are opposed to the 12-step model, look to other group sharing models that do not rely on the ideology of surrendering to addiction. In these programs, participants focus on exercising control over their treatment and eventual recovery from addiction.
SMART Recovery is a non 12 step recovery program that strives to empower people to rid their addiction through a “4-Point Program.” The program works to encourage healthy behavior change through:
SMART Recovery, in essence, is a mental health and education program. Meetings do not focus on the past and things that people cannot change. Instead, they focus on what participants can change — the present and future.
Many people that turn to assistance for addiction recovery seek help through alcohol recovery programs.
At Intrepid Detox, we offer a practical and proven inpatient treatment program. Inpatient treatment, also known as residential rehabilitation, is a live-in facility that involves support through therapy and treatment programs. Our clients do not only stop using substances, but they are encouraged to work with professionals to find the root causes of their addiction.
Residential rehabilitation programs, like Intrepid Detox, provide the highest level of care for those dealing with substance addiction. Inpatient treatment works well for people who need a substance-free environment that is free of temptations and triggers. These programs typically range from 30 to 90 days. One can expect to participate in mental health services, individual and group counseling, wellness and fitness activities, behavioral therapy, and more.
Outpatient treatment works best for those who need to continue their regular daily routine while receiving treatment at night. People in outpatient rehabilitation programs generally still live at home but may live in a sober home to avoid any substances or triggers. Outpatient programs typically last for several months and include similar programs as residential rehabilitation. These programs may consist of detox, family and individual therapy, behavioral counseling, and support groups.
Call us today. 844.684.0795Both 12-step and non-12-step programs have similar end goals: Promoting abstinence from substances and achieving and maintaining long-term recovery. The main difference commonly lies in the emphasis placed on a “higher power.” Many programs that move away from a higher power ideology help individuals develop an increased sense of self-empowerment instead. Non-12-step rehabilitation programs often include:
Committing to a treatment program is challenging. But once someone makes the decision, the road to recovery is clear. The first step when choosing sobriety is often a detox. The detoxification process includes ridding the body of any lingering toxins from substance use. Depending on the substance, the detoxification process varies. Some substances may cause an individual to develop severe withdrawal symptoms when stopping use. For this reason, at Intrepid Detox, we offer a guided detox program to keep our clients comfortable and safe.
Some substances require a medication-assisted detox if the withdrawal symptoms are severe enough. Detox programs are led by medical professionals that have experience and knowledge in dealing with many circumstances. Regardless of the substance, a proper medical detox sets the foundation for recovery and is an essential start to the treatment process.
Many individuals in alcohol recovery programs have what’s called a dual diagnosis. Dual diagnosis, also known as co-occurring disorders, is when an individual has two mental health disorders occurring simultaneously. These conditions may include addiction and other issues like anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and more.
At Intrepid Detox, we treat each disorder concurrently to best help the client. Dual diagnosis is proven beneficial since co-occurring disorders often work together to cause emotional or physical harm to the suffering individual. Therefore, our experienced therapists break down how each disorder is affecting the patient. Dual diagnosis treatment includes therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and medicated-assisted treatment.
Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, has proven beneficial in various treatment forms, including alcohol recovery programs. CBT is a form of talk therapy that focuses on changing thought patterns to create a healthier and more productive life. In CBT, the therapist works with their patient to sift through their behaviors, emotions, and thoughts. This can be highly beneficial as it leads to:
Dialectical behavior therapy, or DBT, is rising in popularity as a treatment for addiction and substance abuse. DBT is a form of cognitive behavioral therapy that focuses on acceptance rather than change. In DBT, clients learn to accept where they are in the present moment. Instead of focusing on behaviors, feelings, and thoughts, DBT patients look to improve their ability to cope with stress, control their emotions, and strengthen their relationships.
Substance use disorders are a challenging part of life. At Intrepid Detox, we want anyone dealing with addiction to know they are not alone, and it is never too late to get help. Whether you are looking for information on 12-step programs or are interested in alternative treatment programs, we can help. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, please contact us today.