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Could A 12 Step Program Be Right For You?
Addiction isn't a choice. That statement may not seem groundbreaking today, but the idea of alcoholism as an illness was a new concept in 1939 when the book Alcoholics Anonymous was first published.
Today, the 12-step recovery model is a cornerstone in the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction. Evidence supports the effectiveness of peer-to-peer support mutual aid organizations such as AA and NA.
A study, sponsored by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), examined the effectiveness of various treatment types in reducing overall drinking and drug use, and concluded that the 12-step model resulted in the most significant long-term impact.
Below are four 12 step organizations that have helped countless millions around the globe recover from addiction to alcohol, drugs, and negative behaviors, as well as other recovery resources to consider.
At Colusa County Recovery - we understand addiction because we've been there.

MAJOR STUDY REVEALS
Alcoholics Anonymous most effective path to alcohol abstinence
A Stanford researcher and two collaborators conducted an extensive review of Alcoholics Anonymous studies and found that the fellowship helps more people achieve sobriety than therapy does. After evaluating 35 studies — involving the work of 145 scientists and the outcomes of 10,080 participants — Keith Humphreys, PhD, professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, and his fellow investigators determined that AA was nearly always found to be more effective than psychotherapy in achieving abstinence. In addition, most studies showed that AA participation lowered health care costs. Learn more


The lie is dead
WE DO RECOVER
RECOVERY IS A TEAM SPORT
(Colusa County Recovery) - Addiction recovery is a challenging process that requires a lot of hard work and determination. One key ingredient for success is having a strong support system in place. Support can come in many forms, including friends, family, and support groups.
Research has shown that social support is essential for addiction recovery. In fact, Keith Humphreys, PhD, a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Stanford Medical University, found that Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is almost always more effective than psychotherapy in achieving abstinence.
Support groups, such as AA, Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Smart Recovery, can provide a sense of community and connection, as well as practical tools for managing cravings and staying on track. These groups are often led by peers who have gone through similar experiences, which can make them uniquely effective.
Friends and family members can also provide a valuable source of encouragement and motivation. They can offer practical support, such as help with daily tasks, transportation, and childcare.
While we appreciate the value of psychotherapy and recommend it highly, having a strong support system that includes support groups and loved ones can greatly improve one's chances of success. By working together, individuals can achieve lasting recovery and reclaim their lives.