We have to realize the truth that we can never use alcohol or drugs in any form again. For almost all of us, this is the moment when hope begins to replace despair, creating a foundation for meaningful change. My name is Janae Seegers and I’m a licensed master’s social worker. I have over three years of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges of mental health and substance use. I graduated from Towson University with my Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Human Services, with a track in Child life. I then pursued my Masters in Clinical Social Work at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, School of Social Work.

Applying Powerlessness to Broader Life Challenges

However, understanding powerlessness is the key to breaking free from the cycle of addiction. “We admitted we were powerless over alcohol (or our addiction) – that our lives had become unmanageable.” Adam Vibe Gunton is an American author, speaker and thought leader in addiction treatment and recovery. After overcoming homelessness and drug addiction, Adam found his life’s purpose in helping addicts find the same freedom he found.

Click Here ↓ to Discover AA80

It may include tasks such as speaking at an AA meeting, telling someone if you feel like drinking, working with a counselor, getting an AA sponsor, and/or telling someone if you do drink. Acceptance of that allows me to build barricades against the physical craving and mental obsession which are part of it. Pregnancy is a transformative journey filled with anticipation, growth, and preparation for a new life.

Thinking About Treatment?

• These substances literally rewire brain function, making the need to satisfy a craving take prominence over everything else in life–regardless of the consequences.
• If so, you must admit defeat, become powerless, and embrace Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) guiding principles, starting with Step 1 of AA.
• Research indicates that a few psychotherapy treatments can improve the symptoms of alcohol use disorder, including the observed lack of control over how much or how often a person uses alcohol.
• My name is Ashlyn Jacob and I’m a licensed master’s social worker.
• American Addiction Centers (AAC) operates treatment facilities nationwide, with admissions navigators standing by 24/7 to help you get admitted into treatment.

Couples therapy and family counseling is often a part of alcohol treatment since drinking likely impacts your relationships with those in your life. The therapist would help you, and your family members better communicate with each https://northiowatoday.com/2025/01/27/sober-house-rules-what-you-should-know-before-moving-in/ other and strengthen your relationships. This is particularly important because research has found that those who have the support of family members are more successful in treatment.11 This therapy can help you find “power” in the people who love you most. Although Alcoholics Anonymous was founded nearly a century ago, many of the teachings are still applicable in modern times. Although Step One of AA is something that has to happen within yourself, that doesn’t mean that outside influences can’t help you get there.

We admitted—Step 1

I have been on both sides of the fence, active addiction and recovery, and continue to choose recovery every day. Samantha is a compassionate therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges and find healing and recovery. Currently pursuing her advanced degree in psychology, Samantha’s personal journey of overcoming addiction fuels her passion for supporting others on their path to wellness. Samantha’s own journey of recovery serves as a powerful foundation for her therapeutic services. She approaches her work with empathy, understanding, and non-judgment, recognizing that everyone’s path to healing is unique. Step One marks the beginning of a lifelong commitment to connection, support, and personal growth.

Taking the 1st Step Toward Managing Alcoholism

• Step 1 of AA requires a great deal of strength and courage as you accept that alcohol has taken over your life.
• In addition, Deirdre has experience in caring for young adults, women’s health issues and adolescents with HIV/AIDS.
• For almost all of us, this is the moment when hope begins to replace despair, creating a foundation for meaningful change.
• You have to accept and understand that you can’t recover from AUD on your own.
• Kevin’s expertise and experience as a Primary Therapist, paired with his natural talents and abilities as a speaker and an artist, have uniquely equipped him to reach our population and render top-notch care.
• After learning the necessary coping skills and engaging in a 12-step fellowship, my life began to change, and only for the better.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Step One is its enduring impact throughout the recovery journey. It equips individuals with the tools to navigate the challenges that arise, helping them resist the temptations of addiction, manage stress, and cope with relapses when they occur. This step remains relevant in every stage of recovery, continually reinforcing the principles of humility, surrender, and self-awareness. Coming to terms with powerlessness can be one of the most challenging aspects of Step One. It’s not easy to admit that something as seemingly controllable as substance use or addictive behavior has taken control of your life.

Bunmi is dedicated to helping her clients reach their full potential and build their toolkit of resources to support their long-term recovery. Taking the first step as an alcoholic is the most courageous act in recovery. Admitting we are powerless over alcoholism and the disease of addiction opens the door to healing and hope. 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.

Her exceptional leadership skills, coupled with her unwavering commitment to delivering high- quality care, have allowed her to successfully oversee the day-to-day operations of a leading addiction treatment facility. With herself and her staff their main goal is to provide a safe, nurturing environment for our clients. Through her relentless pursuit of excellence, Sydney empowers individuals on their journey towards recovery, offering hope and healing to those in need. Throughout that process, he learned the importance of helping others and living by spiritual principles.

You may have seen the inside of hospital rooms or jail cells. Regardless of how you got to this point, Step 1 of AA is merely realizing that your alcohol abuse disorder was interfering negatively with your life, and you need to change. For many people, simply getting to the first step of AA is harder than any other part of the recovery process. In fact, you might need to experience a personal crisis before you feel ready to go to an AA meeting. Ambrosia was founded in 2007 with a mission to provide truly individualized substance abuse treatment to every person who enters one of our programs.

Recognizing your powerlessness over alcohol isn’t a sign of weakness but rather an acknowledgment of the addiction’s strength. Many who struggle with alcoholism sober house have tried to control or moderate their drinking, only to find themselves repeatedly falling into the same destructive patterns. Step One AA emphasizes the futility of attempting to manage something that’s proven uncontrollable.