Step 4: Truth

Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. “This step requires self-examination that can be uncomfortable, but honesty is essential in this process. The key is to identify any areas of past regret, embarrassment, guilt or anger.” In the first three steps of the 12-step program, you’ve admitted that...

Step 2: Hope.

“Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.” The moment they read Step Two, most A.A. newcomers are confronted with a dilemma, sometimes a serious one. How often have we heard them cry out, “Look what you people have done to us! You...

Step 1: Admission, Surrender, and Acceptance

“We admitted we were powerless over alcohol – that our lives had become unmanageable.” Originally posted at Recovery Place, January 2015 The journey of the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous and many other recovery programs starts with Step One. In this step we admit we are powerless...

Battling Depression While in Recovery

Depression is more than just feeling a bit down. It is a medical illness that involves both mental and physical elements. Depression can impact every aspect of your  life and can make normal functioning almost impossible. It is estimated that 850,000 commit suicide as a result of depression each year....

Beyond the 12 Steps: Recovery After Treatment

Although some may believe that recovery only involves treatment at a rehab center, the truth is that recovery from addiction is a life-long process. Rehab is an important first step in addiction treatment, but after detox, users must learn how to re-enter daily life and figure out how to...