Narcotics Anonymous is a 12-step program for recovering drug addicts and for those who have had a problem with drug abuse in their past. The concept of twelve-step recovery began with Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) over 80 years ago. Since the start of AA, other groups like NA have grown to meet other needs in the addiction recovery community. While AA primarily targets alcohol addiction recovery, NA specifically caters to individuals who are in recovery from drug addiction. Many drug-specific support groups also offer twelve-step programs (Cocaine anonymous, Al-Anon, Nicotine Anonymous E.G ).
However, NA support group meetings provide more generalized support for people with any substance use disorder (SUD). Inspired by the twelve steps of AA, Narcotics Anonymous was started in 1953 by Jimmy Kinnon, AKA “Jimmy K.” Like the founders of AA, Jimmy also struggled with addiction and wanted to help others by providing a recovery program that expanded beyond just alcohol abuse addiction.
Twelve Steps of NA
Although both NA and AA follow similar core principles in their Twelve Steps, some steps may be worded differently to better suit the experiences and struggles of those dealing with drug addiction rather than alcohol addiction. For example, NA’s steps often refer to “our addiction” rather than specifically to alcohol, and they may emphasize spiritual awakening and the importance of carrying the message to other addicts.
The twelve steps of NA are:
- Admit Powerlessness: Acknowledge that you’re powerless over your addiction to drugs. This step marks the first crucial acknowledgment of your struggle, paving the way for a commitment to recovery.
- Embrace Hope: Recognize the presence of a higher power that can aid you in your journey toward sobriety. (This higher power doesn’t have to be “god” or adhere to specific religious beliefs.)
- Surrender: Surrender yourself to your chosen higher power, understanding that you’ll rely on it for guidance throughout your recovery.
- Take Inventory: Conduct an honest self-assessment, examining where things may have gone wrong and/or led you to drug addiction.
- Confess and Share: Share your newfound insights and reflections with others, opening up about your struggles and experiences.
- Introspection: Reflect on your past and future, preparing yourself mentally and emotionally for the challenges of your recovery journey.
- Seek Higher Assistance: Ask for assistance from your higher power in navigating your recovery journey.
- Compile Amends List: Reflect on how your actions while abusing drugs may have harmed others and compile a list of those you may have wronged.
- Make Amends: Apologize and make amends to each person on your list, understanding that not everyone may be receptive to your efforts.
- Continuous Self-Reflection: Remain vigilant in taking stock of yourself throughout your recovery journey and promptly address any mistakes or missteps.
- Prayer and Meditation: Stay connected to your higher power and spiritual self through prayer and meditation, finding comfort and guidance in these practices.
- Pay It Forward: Share your experiences and support others struggling with addiction, embodying the spirit of recovery by helping those in need.
As of 2023, there are more than 72,000 NA meetings, with the message carried in 65 different languages in 23 countries and counting. All walks of life, gender, race and social status are united in this fellowship as equals to support this common fellowship.
Help?
Drug addiction knows no race, gender or status of life. Narcotics Anonymous is a fellowship of many people with various experiences who all end up in the same place in their addictions, unmanageability. Can-Am Interventions has been working with and treating addicts for over 25 years. We are there to help at all stages from active addiction to early recovery and beyond. Not only do we treat the addict, but we are also there for the family and friends who are affected by the consequences of addiction. We are here to provide knowledge and guidance as well to give the treatment and council Necessary to each addict’s needs. If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction or may need guidance in recovery, please reach out to us. We are here to help you.
For More Information:
E: patti.pike@canaminterventions.com W:www.canaminterventions.com
1-800-638-1812 Toll Free Internationally 415-827-3725 Text 415-578-2875 Office
Written by: Rob Baird
