Twelve-step programs have helped alcoholics and drug addicts overcome their addictions since the 1950s. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was founded by Bill Wilson, who developed the 12 steps to help you recover from addiction. The first question you may have is how long does it take to complete the 12 steps of AA? There is no right answer to the question of how long it should take you to work through all twelve steps. Some people move quickly through the steps and others need more time. To complete all twelve steps, however, you can expect it to take at least three or more months.
The 12 Step Program
Begin by admitting you have a problem with addiction. Some people find this awkward. Next, you must accept that a power greater than yourself can help you overcome addiction. This step can also be difficult for some people, but you don’t have to be religious to benefit from the 12-step program. If you’re an atheist or agnostic, for example, you can view your reasoning mind as a higher power. You will then have to decide to turn your life over to this power greater than yourself and take a moral inventory of your life. The remaining steps are admitting your wrongdoings, making amends, and taking action to improve your life. You need to go through these steps to identify the areas in your life that need to change.
Collaborating With a Sponsor
Joining a 12-step program is a big commitment. If you’re ready, you’ll be assigned a sponsor. Your sponsor’s job is to help you get sober and stay sober. They’ll also encourage you to go to meetings. Meetings are key to the 12-step program. They supply accountability and support. Eventually, you want to be a sponsor yourself and help others on their sobriety journey. Most sponsors encourage new members to attend 90 meetings in 3 months. Even though that sounds like a lot, compared to the length of time you’ve been addicted to alcohol, it’s a short commitment. During the most challenging time of your recovery, meetings give you the support you need to stay sober.
It’s About Effort, Not Time
Alcoholics Anonymous offers a framework for making positive changes in your life through its 12 steps. Through these steps, you will find that your goal is not only to improve your own life but also to be effective in the lives of those who have been impacted by your addiction. There is no set amount of time in which to complete the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. All 12 steps may take some people a few days, while others may take years. What matters is that you’re acting and making progress. The first step is to join AA. After that, the order of steps isn’t fixed. Even if some steps take longer than others, you are committing to sobriety and successful recovery. As you work through the steps, keep in mind that each one brings you closer to your goals. As part of the steps, you make amends to people you hurt due to your drinking. It can be a lengthy process, so take your time. Try not to rush things. Consult your sponsor or another AA member for advice if you don’t know what to do. The goal is to stay sober and help others do the same.
Detox and Rehab vs. 12-Step Programs
You can get sober faster with medication, individual counseling, and group counseling at rehab programs. AA’s 12 steps can also help you get sober, but they aren’t as quick and effective as the evidence-based clinical method used in rehab. However, the 12 steps can help you stay sober for the long haul. It’s hard to stay sober when you’re constantly tempted. A sponsor can help. Your sponsor holds you accountable to completing your 12 steps. Staying sober requires more than abstaining from drugs and alcohol. Staying sober means changing your lifestyle and how you think about yourself and your addiction. You might need to find a new social circle, develop new hobbies, and learn how to cope with stress without drugs or alcohol. You must stay sober for the rest of your life. Getting sober is just the beginning. If you are struggling with addiction, our counselors are waiting to help you at 844-844-3463.