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Self-Help Groups Strengthen Aftercare

young people meet at self-help group

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is one of the most commonly known self-help groups out there – with meetings that occur every week, people from all walks of life can come in and talk about what they’ve gone through while learning of new tools and resources to help them on their journey through sobriety. Other self-help groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and even non-12 step programs such as SMART Recovery and Women for Sobriety offer group support to those who could benefit from community support without spiritual or religious guidance. Self-help groups can provide much-needed support, but they are typically best when used in addition to a treatment program at Avalon Malibu. In many instances, these types of support groups can help people achieve and maintain abstinence while also growing in numerous ways – the people who attend self-help groups can benefit one another in achieving greater strength than ever before.  When deciding on which self-help group to add to your treatment regime, it’s important to look at each group and determine which one most closely aligns with your beliefs, attitudes, values, and overall approach towards life and recovery. Don’t disregard non-12-Step self-help groups, however, just because you haven’t heard of them as often – because previous studies have shown that they can be just as successful as 12-Step programs, if not more sometimes. Greater levels of participation, satisfaction, and cohesion among members were found, which makes the choice ultimately up to you. There are several differences that can be found in self-help groups and researching these differences can help you determine which path would be most fruitful for you. Remember, any additional steps that you take outside of your treatment at Arbor Behavioral Healthcare are meant to strengthen your mind, body, and spirit rather than detract from it. 

At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms.  The Arbor uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor, you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan.  We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 844-413-2690.