I was first introduced to the program of Alcoholics Anonymous while I was in rehab for alcoholism (I was 21 years old at the time). I had heard of AA before, but I always wrote it off as a religious group for older adults. Why would I want to sit in a circle and complain about my problems when I could just call up a friend and complain to them much more easily over the phone? I hadn’t looked into the history of the development of AA before I was first introduced, but my interest in the program was piqued after I sat through my first meeting. There were young people in the meeting, and many of them seemed to have it together. They had jobs, a bunch of friends, and huge smiles wiped across their vibrant faces.
Alcoholics Anonymous Program Had Helped Millions of Men and Women
So I took it upon myself to research the program of Alcoholics Anonymous, and I was shocked to find the program had helped millions of men and women across the world overcome alcoholism and drug addiction since 1935. How could something so outdated possibly be so effective? That was my very first taste of AA, but I didn’t start working the program until I found myself in rehab once again, at age 24. My rehab center (in Southern Florida) toted us to at least one off-residence AA meeting every couple of days. The remainder of the meetings were held at the inpatient treatment center. Again, we all dressed up to go to the meetings, thinking of them more as social events than part of our treatment plans. But soon, that way of thinking completely changed. 
Is Alcoholics Anonymous Considered a Viable Treatment Option?
Is Alcoholics Anonymous treatment? Yes, it is. This theory has been proven repeatedly for decades — involvement in the 12 Step program of AA does help people recover. However, whether or not it is a viable stand-alone treatment option depends on your circumstances. If you have been struggling with a very mild substance use issue, for example, if you have been engaging in problem drinking and you want to get ahold of your drinking patterns before they get out of control, attending an AA meeting and working through the steps with a sponsor might be sufficient. However, if you have been struggling with a moderate or severe substance use problem for an extended period and you have had difficulty quitting on your own, entering into an inpatient or outpatient treatment program is a much better choice. Fortunately, you do not have to make this decision on your own. We are available to help — simply give us a call, and we will help you determine which treatment options are the best for your personal needs.
Evoke Wellness and the Role of Alcoholic Anonymous and Other 12 Step Programs
At Evoke Wellness, we utilize Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous as part of our comprehensive treatment program. Why? Because it’s effective. However, it is important to note that Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12 Step programs are most effective when combined with a range of other addiction treatment services, including intensive behavioral therapy, holistic therapies, and a restoration of physical health through adequate nutrition and fitness.
Overcome Alcohol Addiction at Evoke Wellness
At Evoke Wellness, we offer an integrated addiction recovery program, focusing on the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual consequences of long-term drug and alcohol abuse. We do much more than transport our clients to and from AA and NA meetings — we give them a thorough education on the 12 Steps and the principles behind them and teach them why it is so important to find a sponsor and work through the steps as soon as treatment comes to a close. To learn more or to get started, contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you get started on the road to recovery.
