12-step Group Therapy

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 48.7 million people over the age of 12 reported having a substance use disorder (SUD) the year prior in 2022. Countless others in the country also struggle with non-substance addiction and compulsive behaviors.

Navigating mental health disorders in any form can be challenging. Addiction, whether to substances or behaviors like shopping or sex, can take a toll on every aspect of a person’s life, from their relationships to their responsibilities to their finances. Not only that, but substance use disorders can be isolating.

Although living with addiction and mental illness can be difficult, there is hope. 12-step group therapies provide individuals struggling with their mental health with a sense of community, as well as numerous invaluable resources such as mentors.

If you or someone you love is struggling to navigate their mental health, it can be important to learn about the different options available, including programs like 12-Step groups.

What is 12-Step Group Therapy?

12-Step groups are mutual support groups that utilize a step-by-step structure. Although group therapies can be used for a wide variety of challenges, 12-step group therapies often have a narrower target, instead focusing on addiction.

They also feature several key distinguishing features, including:

• A structured treatment process focused on a series of steps guiding individuals through their recovery journey
• A key focus on community, with peer support being a large component of sessions
• Spiritual and emotional growth that, traditionally, acknowledges a higher powers — secular options have also been introduced, replacing the spiritual component while still highlight growth
• Sponsorship, in which those who have graduated from the program acts as mentors to those undergoing this form of therapy

The Importance of Community in 12-Step Group Therapy

Peer support, fellowship, community — these are essential aspects of 12-step groups. From the earliest days of the first 12-Step group, Alcoholics Anonymous, to more modern renditions of this therapy archetype, peer support and its role in accountability have been central to the effectiveness of these programs.

An estimated 1 in 5 adults in the United States experience mental illness each year according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. However, despite how common mental health conditions can be, many individuals still face stigma.

In 12-step group therapy, individuals are able to connect with others who have had similar experiences, as well as faced similar problems. This provides them with the opportunity to find understanding and empathy, as well as encouragement to continue persevering in their mental health journey.

The importance of community in these programs also lends itself to a sense of accountability. From the fellowship fostered by other members to the guidance provided by a mentor, 12-step group therapies motivate individuals to commit to their recovery journeys —  as well as stay committed.

Overall, the combination of peer support, community, and accountability fosters an environment where individuals are able to find a sense of belonging and connection, one that can be invaluable when seeking long-term healing and recovery. 12-Step groups can connect individuals not only to others facing similar challenges but to essential resources such as mentors and guides that may otherwise be unavailable.

What is 12-Step Group Therapy Used to Treat?

Although the original focus of 12-step group therapy had revolved around addiction, specifically substance use disorders, it has since been adapted as a form of treatment for various conditions and concerns.

Today, 12-step group therapy may be used in treating:

• Alcohol use disorder, or alcoholism
• Other substance use disorders, including opioid use disorder
• Gambling addiction
• Sex addiction
• Compulsive behaviors, like compulsive eating or shopping

For many people, 12-step group therapy is used as a part of relapse prevention. As a result, it is most often utilized in achieving long-lasting sobriety and maintaining recovery. This is commonly done by equipping individuals with the tools they need to understand and navigate triggers.

The Benefits of 12-Step Group Therapy

One of the most notable benefits of 12-step group therapy, as mentioned previously above, is the sense of community it provides. When individuals engage in group therapy, they’re able to connect with others going through similar situations. This allows them to swap anecdotes, share coping mechanisms, and encourage one another. However, community is only one benefit of 12-step group therapy.

Some of the benefits of participating in a 12-step group therapy program include:

• A sense of camaraderie developed through fostering connections and bolstering support systems
• Guidance with staying consistent in seeking lasting recovery through accountability
• The ability to help others who are struggling with similar circumstances
• Working through the root causes of addiction
• Developing healthy coping mechanisms and strategies for everyday life

It’s important to remember that not everyone will experience the same benefits from 12-step group therapy. Although it can be an invaluable part of long-lasting, meaningful recovery for many people, some individuals may benefit better from other forms of treatment. For those attending these group sessions, many of the potential benefits also depend on active participation, through both connecting with other members as well as practicing the techniques you learn here.

Can 12-Step Group Therapy Be Used With Other Treatments?

When it comes to mental health illnesses, whether you’re navigating substance use disorders or compulsive behaviors, lasting recovery often requires a whole-person approach. This means going beyond treating symptoms to targeting the root of concerns.

Because of this, 12-step group therapy is often used as part of a more comprehensive treatment plan. For many people, 12-Step groups can aid in relapse prevention while teaching them healthy coping skills and strategies. Social support can be beneficial in recovery, although exact effectiveness may vary. However, people just beginning their healthcare journey may require additional steps first, such as in-patient services and detoxification from substances or more intense psychotherapies.

Some of the other treatments that may be used alongside 12-step group therapy include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Holistic treatments such as yoga and mediation
• Art therapy
• Family therapy

If you have questions about whether or not 12-step group therapy could be beneficial for you or a loved one, it may be best to reach out to a healthcare provider about your concerns. Your situation, needs, and preferences are unique to you, and there may be other therapies that can be used as a complement or alternative to 12-step group therapy that may be more helpful.

Potential Drawbacks to 12-Step Group Therapy

12-Step groups can offer essential support to those who are struggling with their mental health. However, like every form of treatment, programs like 12-step group therapy may not be the right choice for everyone.

Whether you or a loved one are suffering with a substance use disorder, addiction, or a different mental illness, your experience is unique. As a result, the treatments and therapies that work for someone else may not work for you.

Here are some potential drawbacks to 12-step group therapy that may make it a less effective choice for some individuals:

Spiritual Aspects

Some of the very first 12-Step groups highlight spiritual and religious aspects. As a result, it is a common misconception that every 12-step group therapy program today still focuses on these aspects. At first glance, this misconception can make participating in these programs less accessible to some individuals.

It’s important to note that there are many group therapy communities today based on secular 12-step programs. These allow for individuals to experience the same community and support without worrying about religious differences.

Difficulty Finding the Right Support Group

There are many different types of 12-step group therapy available, with variations in each group. As a result, like with any form of therapy, finding a group that you feel connected to may be difficult at first. This is especially true for individuals in areas where various group sessions aren’t available.

While it can be challenging to find the right group for your needs and preferences, there are online support groups available as well, helping minimize this drawback.

Requirement for Active Participation

Not everyone will benefit from a 12-step group therapy session. However, in order to have the potential to benefit from this treatment program, it’s important to actively participate in the group. This involves embracing the 12-step principles, as well as practicing what you learn in your day-to-day life outside of sessions.

Maintaining Involvement in 12-Step Groups for Long-Term Recovery

Finding personal growth and achievement in 12-step group therapy can often go beyond the sessions themselves. Like with any form of therapy, it’s important that individuals practice the techniques they learn during 12-step group therapy in their day-to-day lives as well. Embracing the core principles of 12-Step groups and applying them to everyday life is an important part of supporting sobriety.

Here are few ways that you can incorporate what you may learn in 12-step group therapy into your day-to-day life:

• Practice self-reflection and honesty whenever possible
• Continue to grow and develop your support network
• Practice healthy, open communication
• Avoid isolation and stay connected not only with loved ones but also health providers, mentors, and peers
• Practice forgiveness, for yourself and others