Addiction treatment with the 12 Step approach can help any alcoholic at any time. In my opinion an addict can hit rock bottom when they decide to stop digging. Rock bottom is hitting a physically and or mentally low point in life where an individual feels broken and defeated, not able to go on living the same way anymore.
The 12 Steps are not for people who need it or want it; it only works for the people who do it. From what I have seen, an addict only has two options that are successful; either dies a lonely miserable death using, or finding a God of your own understanding through working the 12 Steps. I do believe that the addict needs to go through some sort of turmoil in their life to gain that desperation and willingness to do something different. That does not mean that you have to become homeless and lose the kids, wife, and the house – all that it means is that you have lost control of your life because of this disease called alcoholism.
I did not hit the lowest bottom to bring me in the rooms but I realized that I was either headed to my deathbed or jail, and I did not want that for my life. I was tired of not being able to do simple things that normal people did because my only priority was to get high. I decided to stop digging and throw in the white towel and that was the best decision that I have ever made in my life. Today I have gained a freedom from my mental obsession and physical allergy to alcohol and other substances. In the rooms I have seen people come in who have not hit the same physical bottom as me but on an emotional level we all experienced the exact same feelings. The results of the twelve steps for those that work them to the best of their ability are the same also, it is a simple solution given to the hopeless addicts that do not think there is a way to ever stop drinking and using.
Working the 12 Steps has given me a full life today. I have a job that I have been able to hold onto for almost a full year. I have learned how to have real relationships with family and friends. The thing that I am the most grateful for is the freedom that I have gained. I no longer feel trapped in my own head and it is all thanks to my God and the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Written by Joey Van Buskirk
Last Updated on February 20, 2024
