As the second-largest addiction support group in the world, Narcotics Anonymous has helped many people achieve and maintain sobriety. Based on Alcoholics Anonymous’ 12-step approach, Narcotics Anonymous founded the 12-Tradition method. The 12 Traditions are guidelines for effective and sustained recovery from drug addiction. If you or a loved one is considering joining Narcotics Anonymous, it is important to be well-informed about the program.
What Is Narcotics Anonymous?
Narcotics Anonymous is an organization that serves individuals who have struggled with drug addiction and are attempting long-term recovery. Narcotics Anonymous, or NA, was founded in 1953 in response to the rising popularity of Alcoholics Anonymous. Unlike Alcoholics Anonymous which only serves alcoholics, NA welcomes individuals with varied drug addictions, mainly illicit and prescription drugs. Funded by contributions, Narcotics Anonymous does not require payment to become a member. Currently, there are over 70,000 active NA groups operating in 144 countries.
The 12 Traditions
The 12 traditions were established by Narcotics Anonymous as guidelines to ensure sustained sobriety and long-term recovery. They are listed below.
- Our common welfare should come first; personal recovery depends on NA unity.
- For our group purpose there is but one ultimate authority— a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience. Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern.
- The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop using.
- Each group should be autonomous except in matters affecting other groups or NA as a whole.
- Each group has but one primary purpose—to carry the message to the addict who still suffers.
- An NA group ought never endorse, finance, or lend the NA name to any related facility or outside enterprise, lest problems of money, property, or prestige divert us from our primary purpose.
- Every NA group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions.
- Narcotics Anonymous should remain forever nonprofessional, but our service centers may employ special workers.
- NA, as such, ought never be organized, but we may create service boards or committees directly responsible to those they serve.
- Narcotics Anonymous has no opinion on outside issues; hence the NA name ought never be drawn into public controversy.
- Our public relations policy is based on attraction rather than promotion; we need always maintain personal anonymity at the level of press, radio, and films.
- Anonymity is the spiritual foundation of all our Traditions, ever reminding us to place principles before personalities.
Is Narcotics Anonymous Right For Me?
Narcotics Anonymous has been found to be very effective in supporting continued sobriety; however, it may not be for everyone. Some individuals benefit more from residential addiction treatment, while others may require intensive therapy. Addiction support groups like NA can also supplement any method of treatment you decide to receive. If you have questions about treatment programs, addiction experts can answer any questions you may have.
We Can Help
If you have questions regarding 12-step based programs and addiction treatment, we are here to help. Addiction is a devastating disease and you do not have to fight it alone. The founders of Asheville Recovery Center, as well as many of our addiction therapists, have struggled with addiction and now enjoy life in recovery. They understand the struggles of addiction and how difficult it is to overcome on your own.
At Asheville Recovery Center, specialists have combined various therapies, treatments and 12-step approaches to develop an effective, hybrid model of treatment designed to fit every individual’s unique circumstances.
If you feel that you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, our specialists are on standby and ready to help. Call (828) 518-6996 and speak with an addiction expert today so you can take the first step towards a rewarding life of sobriety.
