Is a 12 Step Meeting Really Going to Change My Life?

The first meeting you attend may not go so far as to change your life, but it is likely that, if you stick with the program, it will make a tremendous difference in your recovery over time. Call 800-781-0748 (Who Answers?) now to find rehab programs where you can attend 12 step meetings and receive access to other treatment options.

Your First Meeting (And What to Expect)

12 Step Meeting

Attending 12 step meetings regularly can change your life for the better.

Because of the many testimonials available given by those who claim a 12-step program has changed their lives, it is hard not to think that you will be completely turned around by your very first meeting. However, this probably won’t be the case. It is important to know what to expect from your first meeting and how you can prepare yourself to gain all you can from your 12-step program.

  • Unlike many people believe, you don’t have to talk immediately in your first meeting. It may be best to just listen and observe at first. Over time, though, it will be helpful to you and to everyone else if you join in on the conversation. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “These groups offer an added layer of community-level social support to help people in recovery,” and participating in meetings is part of this.
  • While you are observing the first meeting, make sure you feel that the other individuals are people you can become comfortable with over time. If you do not feel like the atmosphere is conducive to your recovery, there are always other 12-step meetings at different places and times in the day.
  • Don’t have incredibly high expectations for the very first meeting. It isn’t likely that you’ll meet your new best friend right away or immediately feel a strong connection with the group. For most people, these things come with time.

Do 12-step Groups Change Lives?

12-step meetings can be life changing, but this usually occurs over a period of time. As stated by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, a person can attend these meetings as long as they want without paying or having insurance, so as long as you feel you are benefitting from the program, it shouldn’t harm you to continue with it.

These groups can change lives, and while one specific meeting may not do so, you never know what may have occurred at the meeting you didn’t attend. Therefore, attending meetings regularly should be a part of your recovery plan.

If you find that the 12-step group you choose doesn’t present you with the benefits or the amount of help you seek, it may also just be that this program isn’t for you. Don’t worry, though; no one treatment option is right for every individual.

Seek Help for Addiction Now

If you have been struggling with substance abuse and need to make a change in your life, call 800-781-0748 (Who Answers?) . We will strive to help you find the best treatment resource for your needs and match you with a rehab center that offers the options you require, including 12-step therapy. Call now to find out more.

Build a Sober Life that You Can be Proud of – How 12 Step Treatment Can Help

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