- Perhaps the least expensive, most accessible options for recovery are 12-step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous, which teaches a new, spiritual way of living mapped out in 12 steps. Members attend meetings with other recovering alcoholics, then work with a sponsor to conquer their addiction and learn a new approach to their life.
With A.A., daily maintenance of the spiritual condition is the basis for recovery, and participation allows the recovering alcoholic to continue living at home, working and participating in normal day-to-day activities. - Most treatment centers base their program of recovery on A.A.'s 12 steps and 12 traditions. They are typically available on an inpatient or outpatient basis and generally run 30 days, though they may run longer in some instances. Treatment is followed by aftercare, in which recovering alcoholics are eased into normal daily activities and required to attend meetings on a regular basis. This can be a great option for people who need something more intensive than merely attending daily meetings, as it reintroduces the patient to the environment in which they practiced their addiction and allows them to start over with a strong support system.
- Many places of faith offer recovery programs for church members, some based on A.A.'s 12 steps and others on eight steps or theological principles. Groups generally meet once a week to talk about their struggles and study holy texts. Some people find faith-based programs to be effective on their own, while others combine them with A.A. treatments.
- A great number of recovering alcoholics find that going to therapy enhances their recovery. Counselors specializing in addiction can help them through the 12 steps, encourage them to attend A.A. meetings and assist them in delving deeper into issues from their past that may play a part in their alcoholism.
- Some people choose to participate in alternative treatments for alcoholism, such as hypnosis, acupuncture and chiropractic care. If you are open to alternative treatments in general, you may want to ask your doctor for a referral to an alternative practitioner.
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