AA reminds us that we are not alone, and working Step 1 is the foundation for lasting change. Embrace this moment, knowing it’s not a sign of weakness but a step toward a life of freedom, purpose, and fulfillment. The 1st Step of AA is more than just admitting we are powerless—it’s the key that opens the door to spiritual healing. For those of us struggling with alcohol addiction or substance use disorders, the 1st Step marks the moment we let go of our attempts to control the uncontrollable. When we admit that our lives are no longer manageable, we become willing to seek solutions beyond ourselves, laying the groundwork for a profound spiritual awakening.
Again, later on I found out that I enjoy doing all those activities just as much if not more when I’m sober.
If you’re struggling with drug or alcohol addiction and are trying to overcome it on your own, give 12 step meetings a chance. Find an AA meeting near you to hear from others in a similar position and receive judgment-free support. Our body (and brain) inherently seek self-preservation; we recoil from pain, avoid things we view as dangerous and feel good when engaging in activities that are healthy like exercising or eating vegetables.
Examples of Powerlessness Over Alcohol
- This imbalance teaches the brain to crave more alcohol, which reinforces the cycle of overuse, leading to dependence and addiction.
- The problem with admitting powerlessness, even when all the evidence points in that direction, is that such an admission is not merely exchanging one belief for another more accurate one.
- John C. Umhau, MD, MPH, CPE is board-certified in addiction medicine and preventative medicine.
- Michael is the Community Outreach Coordinator and Alumni Director.
Corey’s mission is to provide quality behavioral health care to local community members who reach out in need, regardless of their financial situation. Outside of powerless over alcohol The Freedom Center, Corey enjoys playing golf, hiking and most of all being the best father to his three young boys. Admitting the full reality and weight of the first step plunges people into despair. Once acknowledged as powerless over alcohol and/or other drugs, there seems to be no hope left. Our mission is to provide the most cost-effective, accessible treatment for substance use disorder to as many patients as possible. We are committed to an integrated quality of care that is comprehensive, person-centered, and recovery-focused.
- Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering healthier workplaces and supporting those in recovery.
- A program friend of mine was very upset with how her goddaughter was living.
- Professional guidance designed to help on your journey to recovery.
- Admitting to being powerless over alcohol will help a person to recognize that he or she does not have control over their drinking.
Which Treatments Complement Working the 12 Steps?
This connection transforms shame into hope and isolation into community, showing us that together, we can overcome addiction and build a fulfilling life. When we share our experiences in AA meetings, we begin to describe people like us—those who have struggled with alcohol abuse and found hope. Sharing removes the shame that keeps us isolated and opens the door to healing. The twelve steps provide a spiritual solution to break free from this obsession. By working the steps, we gain the tools to overcome the relentless thoughts of using, creating space for hope, clarity, and a fulfilling life in recovery.
The Benefits of Embracing Powerlessness
The journey toward understanding and managing unmanageability may seem challenging, but countless individuals have walked this path successfully, and so can you. Research indicates that a few psychotherapy treatments can improve the symptoms of alcohol use Sober living house disorder, including the observed lack of control over how much or how often a person uses alcohol. After years of battling alcohol and drug addiction, Shannon found purpose in aiding and assisting the still suffering alcoholic and addict.