If you have lost control of your alcohol consumption, you may be considering your options for long-term recovery. Two of the main contenders in this field are 12-step programs and the more recently developed approach of moderation management.
Ask about using moderation management vs. 12-step recovery during drug and alcohol detox in Miami, Florida.
History & Tradition of Alcoholics Anonymous: Does it Work?
The 12-step method to long-term addiction recovery is based on the principle of abstinence. Walking into a 12-step meeting, you agree that you will try to stop drinking. The original method outlined in Alcoholics Anonymous dates back to 1935. For history buffs, that’s just two years after the end of alcohol prohibition in America.
Alcoholics Anonymous has helped thousands—perhaps millions—of people stop drinking and regain control of their lives. Unfortunately, the program is anonymous, which makes it difficult to get data on its effectiveness. However, the majority of addiction treatment facilities in America use the 12-step model of addiction treatment. Many recovering substance abusers find hope and support through group meetings and the Twelve Traditions, the guide for behavior used in 12-step programs.
Moderation Management: A Harm-Reducing Alternative to AA
Although Florida 12-step recovery programs are popular, they aren’t the only option for long-term control of substance abuse. Moderation management is another support group that encourages its members to consider harm reduction instead of abstinence.
During moderation management, professionals encourage members to start with 30 days of sobriety. An extended period of disciplined moderation plans follows. Unlike 12-step programs, Moderation management only encourages individuals to control alcohol consumption. (It’s hard to imagine any group encouraging the moderate use of methamphetamine or heroin.)
Moderation management is a completely secular program that focuses on finding support through a practical form of psychological training known as cognitive behavioral therapy. Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12-step programs, on the other hand, have a profoundly spiritual element. In the Twelve Traditions, members must submit themselves to the authority of “a loving God, as He may express Himself in our group conscience.” Members of 12-step meetings often emphasize that it is how each member conceives of God that is important. Religious tradition is not part of the steps.
Regardless of Long-Term Plans, It All Starts with Medical Detox
Choosing between moderation management vs. 12-step recovery to deal with alcoholism is a decision that should be discussed with addiction professionals. However, regardless of what method you choose, making a change and getting in control of your drinking or drug use is the best decision for your health and well-being. Start your journey to recovery with the following programs:
- Medical detox in Jupiter
- Luxury alcohol and drug detox in Miami, FL
- Inpatient drug detox program
- Men’s and women’s addiction detox
With multiple detox center locations in Florida, Serenity House Detox & Recovery offers the highest level of alcohol detox care to be found anywhere. Contact Serenity House Detox & Recovery today at 866.294.5306 to learn about how professional drug and alcohol detox services in Florida can help you successfully recover from alcohol addiction.
