why are 12 step programmes and other spiritual programmes so widely recommended to treat addiction and substance misuse problems. what other treatments are available that help you to not only stop partaking in addictive behaviour but also to level out your emotions?
2007-08-05 12:07:57 · 4 answers · asked by colejoe79 2 in Health ➔ Mental Health
BECAUSE THEY WORK. There are other programs out there, but I don't pay any attention to them because AA and NA work the best. Not only do they change your addictive behaviors, but they help you become a better person, which is basically working on your emotions. If you take a crazed addict and take away the drugs, your still left with a crazed person. AA or NA work against not only the addictive behaviors, but the crazed part. I think a good combination between 12 programs and therapy is the best combination though.
2007-08-05 16:35:59 · answer #1 · answered by James W 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The 12-step programs have simply been around for a long time and they have worked for a lot of people (thought not others). But there are definitely more alternatives than 12-step programs. You might want to do some reserach and read up on "Rational Recovery." They have groups just like AA, but they are not spiritually based.I I also know that a lot of hospitals have programs for addiction recovery and not all of them are 12-step-based. I can't give you more info. b/c I don't know where you live. But my point is that in the past ten years, a lot of different programs have come up and AA is not your only choice. If you talk to a substance abuse counselor, do some internet research on your own or even call up some rehabilitation places and ask where they refer their patients after they get out...you'll have a lot of leads.One last thing is that what you're describing sounds like "dual diagnosis." (Emotional problems and addiction.) Do some research on outpatient dual diagnosis in your area and see what you come up with. Again, many hospitals have dual diagnosis programs (Actually, that's a program that I'm starting next week.) I hope this helps a little. If you want, you cal let me know where you live so I can help you find some programs that fit your needs. And remember, that a lot of this is going to be trial and error....you may need to go to a bunch of different programs before you find one that you feel is right for your particular needs. Good luck to you.
2007-08-05 19:38:09 · answer #2 · answered by girlie 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Most people take drugs to feel better. Once a person gets addicted to a drug (alcohol is a drug), they have to stop taking all mood altering substances ( Prescription medications that are prescribed by a doctor are not included in this) if they want to stop using the one that is causing the problems.
It is almost impossible to do this if a persons life is chaotic and unhappy. The 12 steps are basic principles to living a happy life. Also, to stay sober and drug free, a person needs regular times to meet with people who have a similar problem and are being successful at overcoming it. 12 step meetings are perfect for this.
I used to work as a RN in psych and CD units for 20 years. I have never heard of any method that even comes close to being as effective as a 12 step program.
2007-08-05 19:47:37 · answer #3 · answered by Smartassawhip 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Basically any psychotherapist should be able to help you, or at least point you in the direction of someone who can. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a great way to alter your addictive behaviors, and will also help you to explore, address, and if you so desire change your emotions. It is an involved process that shows results very quickly. Good luck!
2007-08-05 19:41:37 · answer #4 · answered by Police 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋