Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) uses several self-empowerment tools to help people recovering from alcohol addiction. The 12 steps aren’t the only ways that people can connect with the process. The Serenity Prayer, adopted by AA in the 1940s, is often used as a mantra—a reminder that even though things will happen, individual people can still be in control.
Why does AA use the serenity prayer?
“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.”
Acceptance and empowerment are central to AA’s mission. No matter where you are in life, you cannot go back in time and change anything. Accepting this fact, especially when you’re in recovery, can help you move on. Guilt and shame are inevitable after you stop drinking, and it’s easy to bog down in those feelings. But you deserve to accept that you can change—and that you’ll put in the work to do just that.
Not only can you change, you’re capable of doing so successfully. When you do the work, dedicating your path forward to living without drugs or alcohol, you take charge of your future. You’re brave enough to be accountable for what you do, no longer having—or wanting—to hide behind alcohol to try and cope with what life hands you.
The serenity prayer is a good reminder for AA attendees of these two core beliefs.
When are mantras helpful in recovery?
Mantras like the serenity prayer can be helpful no matter where you are in the recovery process. Many AA meetings include at least one group serenity prayer, which can help reinforce the beliefs of acceptance and empowerment in a group setting.
You can also use mantras on your own. Whether you’re facing an unexpected challenge or are at the end of a long day at work, reciting a few words to yourself can help you focus on living in the moment. There will be times when your resolve and patience are tested, where it would be easy to reach for a drink or drug. A mantra can allow you to reframe your mindset, regain control, and find an alternative way to handle your situation.
How does AA work in addiction treatment?
12-step programs can work directly with addiction treatment programs in several ways.
- A framework: The 12-step model is approachable and relatable for many people in addiction treatment. Treatment staff can work the goals of the 12 steps into therapy sessions as milestones and topics.
- Accountability: AA meetings are held in groups, giving people in recovery a chance to connect with others struggling with alcohol so they have people to whom they can be accountable.
- Transition from treatment: Some treatment centers host AA meetings on their campus and/or coordinate AA meetings in the community. This gives clients the opportunity to get comfortable with the process so they can continue engaging after treatment ends.
AA is a spiritual-based program, and it’s not the best fit for everyone. However, the core tenets of AA—including the 12 steps—are helpful in the recovery process and can be adapted.
Using the 12 steps at Red Oak Recovery®
We offer 12-step programming for the men who come to Red Oak Recovery®. Countless people have found help with the 12-step approach, including many of the men who have visited our campus in North Carolina for treatment. Our licensed professionals can work various values of the AA model into personalized treatment plans if you or a loved one will benefit from them. We’ll also help coordinate with 12-step meetings as part of a relapse prevention plan, giving you regular accountability and a place to turn when you need it.
Get in touch with us today by calling 828.382.9699 or completing our online form.
