Recovery methods or tools that have been put into place to help keep you on a sober path are not a one size fits all type of deal. Everyone is different. What works for one, may not work for others. And, not liking your program will almost definitely hinder your success.
Many people find that Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a saving grace when they are thrown out into the world as a newly sober being. Yet, others have dislikes of the program that they cannot look beyond, such as the references to a “higher power” or the idea of a 12-step program.
So, what do you do when you AA isn’t for you? There are many other good – and effective – support groups to choose from. The key is to find one that fits you and stick with it. Relax – you have options.
Women for Sobriety, Inc.
Since 1976, Women for Sobriety has been helping women achieve success in their recovery. Based on what they refer to as a “New Life” program, WFS focuses on positivity. It encourages women to use thirteen positive statements as a tool to grow emotionally and spiritually.
The primary focus of Women for Sobriety is achieving a new positive lifestyle. When you are in recovery and beginning your new sober life, you cannot live by the same rules you previously had. This program encourages women to adopt new positive habits and live a healthy, positive life.
Women for Sobriety is solely for females – sorry, guys!
SMART Recovery
Self-empowerment. That is the primary goal of the SMART Recovery program. This support group deals with many types of addictions ranging from substance abuse to gambling addictions. It is based on the principle that the power to change is within you. They have meetings online and face-to-face that provide you with the tools you need to be self-reliant in your recovery.
SMART Recovery has a 4-step program that helps its participants learn to curb urges, live a healthy, balanced life, and to also find the motivation to become self-empowered.
Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS)
Founded in 1985 by James Christopher, Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS) is a network of independent groups that work together to provide support for those entering the stage of sobriety. James Christopher is a sober alcoholic himself. He had initially attended AA meetings but was uncomfortable with the focus on a “higher power.” In searching for an alternative program, Christopher saw the need for secular organizations to support those in recovery.
SOS is a non-profit that has face to face and online meetings around the world. They believe that your own personal responsibility, with the support from SOS, is what will lead to success in staying sober throughout recovery. Because it is comprised of many different individual groups, there is no standard uniform guidelines found amongst the groups. Instead, there is a general focus given by SOS and it is up to each group to incorporate that focus.
LifeRing
LifeRing is a worldwide organization. Just as the name suggests, it links people as “life rings” around the world. When you feel vulnerable, you always have someone to reach out to. The focus is on peer-to-peer support. There are face to face meetings and a 24-hour online community available.
LifeRing believes in empowering individuals to oversee their own recovery – with the support of their peers. Only you can change your behavior and teach yourself to be successfully sober. LifeRing gives you the tools, you do the work.
Recovery International
Recovery International has been in place for over 75 years. It was founded by Dr. Abraham A. Low, a neuropsychiatrist who has used cognitive behavioral training to help lead individuals through a healthy recovery. This program helps change the way participants think – replacing negative thoughts and emotions with healthier ones. The idea is that thoughts and responses are within our control and by learning to stop the negativity as it crosses our mind, we can change our body’s response.
In keeping with the other alternative programs, Recovery International also believes in self-reliance and self-help, although it does incorporate the mental health factor.
Programs to Avoid
While there are many programs out there to help you through your sobriety, there are others that may try to convince you that you don’t have to be completely sober to live a good life. They may teach you that drinks are okay – if you drink in moderation. After all, moderation is key, right? Wrong! Sobriety is an all or nothing.
Here are a few other things to avoid when looking for an alternative support group:
- Negative behaviors. It is important for you to remain positive during this time, so avoid those who will flush your good mood down the toilet.
- You need support, but you also need to learn to be a more powerful version of yourself. Avoid groups that breed dependency rather than strength and independence.
- Unavailability of support. You are strong, but you cannot go through recovery alone. And rough patches and urges do not just happen between 9am and 5pm. You will need available support 24-hours a day.
Find Your Best Option
There are many options for support. Some rely on a “higher power,” some are secular. Some are designed specifically for women, others focus on mental health. However, the common theme among all the programs is that you are ultimately in charge of your recovery. Support groups work to empower you and provide you with tools and means of accountability to crush any anti-sober desire that may surface.
Maybe you find that AA will work perfectly for you. Or maybe you still are searching for the one that meets your needs. Whatever you do, do not try to go it alone. You will need some sort of support. There are many alternatives out there – take the time to do your research and then dive in head first. It is about your sobriety and successful recovery – do not take it lightly.