There are countless reasons why 12 step recovery programs work -  for those who work it.

But many people try one or two meetings and leave. Sometimes, the timing isn’t right and you're just not ready and that's okay. Or you think “these guys are nuts” or secretly think you’re not that bad - but pain is a great motivator. 

Usually it takes a crisis to propel us in the rooms of 12 step programs. We don’t come because we want to - we come because we’re out of options. In this blog, you’ll learn why 12 step recovery programs are an amazing place to go to heal.

No other groups offer reliable and free support quite like 12 step programs. If you disagree, no problems - take a minute to read my blog on 12 Step Myths to help you understand what 12 step programs are not.

Now let's talk about the benefits!

1. Unconditional Support

12 step programs offer incredible support simply because members want to give back. They remember what it's like to be new and hurting. Typically, direct advice is discouraged. For example, no one advises you to leave your partner or kick your teenager out of the house.  The program gives you the dignity to decide for yourself  - when you are ready.

2. Tools for Any Problem

The tools learned in 12 step programs can help any problem. For instance, if you're struggling, coming to terms with where you are powerlessness is the first step towards a solution. Other principles like acceptance and surrender support positive change and letting go of control. 

Slogans like One Day At A Time, Let Go and Let God, and Keep It Simple provide comfort during stressful times. These sayings are great attitude boosters that remind us to focus on what's important. For how slogans work click here to read How 12 Step Slogans Work.

3. It's a Safe Haven

When you've had an argument or received bad news, a meeting provides a safe place to go. When you feel like no one understands your pain, someone in a meeting usually gets it!

There have been many times I've gone to meetings and heard someone with my same issue. Immediately you feel less alone. That understanding is hard to replicate. 

4. Get (or keep) Your Serenity

If you grew up with addiction, abuse or dysfunctional behaviors, serenity was probably hard to come by.

As a result you might have grown up feeling anxious or depressed. When the adults around you are struggling, it’s hard to find the joy.

The program shows us how to live in the moment and enjoy what is- rather than expecting others to change.

5. Grow at Your Own Pace

In 12 step programs you set the pace. You can come and go as you please. There are no requirements.

Some people are super committed to work the steps while others aren't ready yet - and there is room for both!

The best thing is that if you disagree with something, you can “take what you like and leave the rest.”

6. No Strict Rules or Fees

12 step programs have expenses but there are no mandatory dues or fees. Newcomers are asked not to contribute because the primary aim is to help relieve people’s suffering.

Also, there are no authority figures. Groups are run by volunteers who do service and rotate positions as needed. While there is no leader, they do have guidelines that govern the group and promote equality.

7. Build Your Tribe 

Building your tribe is probably the most significant benefit in 12 step groups. When you're hurting, there is often a sense of isolation. You may withdraw from social events and not want to hang out with friends. Finding like-minded people who have the same struggle makes you feel less alone life.

8. Find a Spiritual Connection

You may have had a negative experience with religion or maybe you're an atheist. Either way you are welcomed. You do not have to believe in a higher power to get started. Everyone is encouraged to find their own concept of a higher power. Some relate more to nature, or a power within. Many form a new concept of a higher power- but you don't have to!

9. A Sponsor Who Guides 

A sponsor is someone works with you one on one to guide you in the program. These people are more than happy to help you because it helps them to give back what they’ve been given. It’s suggested that you look for someone who has what you want - whether it's someone with a similar situation or someone that just feels safe.

10. Learn Acceptance and Tolerance

People come to 12 step programs because they are struggling with their own behavior or someone else's. The program teaches you how to practice acceptance and tolerance when life isn’t going your way. You learn how to detach from what you can’t control and focus on what you can control.

That alone can greatly reduce your stress!

11. Amazing Crisis Support

Because there are meetings everyday in most places (even on major holidays), when a crisis hits meetings are available. In more remote areas, there are phone meetings. Members are encouraged to make phone calls to stay connected between meetings. Each meeting creates a phone list of members who are willing to take calls. This is meant to provide support between meetings.

12. Be Loved Until You Can Love Yourself

You come to 12 step programs because you're in pain. Learning how to love yourself through addiction or childhood trauma takes time. By getting the support of other members, you eventually learn how to love yourself and heal the parts of you that you dislike.