What Can I Expect as a Newcomer?
Addiction Recovery Program 12 Step Meetings
This program provides a safe place where we:
- use only our first name
- share our current challenges
- meet others who can relate to our struggles
- learn from others' successes in their recovery
- find a support system and practice the 12 Steps
- understand that we are not alone
This program is not:
- A place of shame
- A confessional
- A 12-week program
A guide to addiction recovery and healing that helps individuals overcome addictions through Jesus Christ and His Atonement.
Welcome
We want to encourage you as you begin your personal journey of recovery from addiction/compulsive behavior. We also encourage you to come to as many meetings as possible and to gain the strength you will need to break free from the cravings that keep you in bondage.
Recovery is a serious process that takes time. As you continue in the fellowship of those who desire to break free from addiction/compulsive behavior, you will discover there is hope for you, for changing and improving your life. If you desire to begin this journey now, we welcome you.
The principles of each step are built upon each other and we encourage you to work the steps in order 1 through 12. Working the steps in order will help build a stronger foundation of strength to break free from the chaos that addiction/compulsive behavior causes.
As you continue to move forward in this program, we encourage you to find a sponsor or a support person who is in recovery and practices these same 12 steps in daily living. It is important that this support person has completed the 12 steps to offer you the best support possible. Please see the blue handout "Support in Recovery" found in each meeting to help guide you as you seek for support in recovery.
We have learned that focusing only on the problem creates more of the problem. Our focus in this program is on the power of the Atonement of our Savior Jesus Christ. It is His ability, not our own, that will heal us of our addiction/compulsive behavior. As you turn your mind and heart over to God through hard work and dedication, to come unto Christ daily, you can be free from addiction/compulsive behavior and enjoy a new peace and freedom.
We invite you this day to begin as we did by taking this step of faith towards a new life of freedom from the devastating effects of addiction/compulsive behavior. Come join us in a meeting to start your recovery.
What happens in a meeting
- Missionaries preside. A missionary welcomes participants.
- Opening prayer
- Read the 12 Steps aloud
- Read and discuss the specific step assigned for that week
- Sharing session (3–5 minutes per participant; participants may pass)
- Missionary bears testimony
- Closing prayer
Anonymity and confidentiality
- Introduce yourself by your first name only.
- "Who you see here, what you hear here, when you leave here, let it stay here."
- You can choose to just listen. When it's your turn to read or share, simply say "pass."
- When sharing, focus on solutions and avoid graphic details.
First-time tips
- No sign-up, referral, or cost—just show up a few minutes early.
- Pick a meeting that fits you: general addiction, pornography addiction, young single adults, couples, or spouse and family support.
- Can't make it in person? Join one of our Zoom or call-in meetings.
- Try a few meetings before deciding—each group has its own feel.
Who it's for
Meetings are for adults (18 or older) seeking recovery from substance abuse, pornography use, and other addictive or compulsive behaviors, and for spouses, parents, and family members who want support. Meetings are guided by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but people of any faith or no faith are welcome.
Support groups can be one part of recovery. They are not run by professional counselors and are not treatment groups; you may also want professional help. In a crisis, call or text 988 or call 911.
Watch: What to expect
For videos and more information about this program, visit addictionrecovery.churchofjesuschrist.org.