Reply #79: You already exhibit too much independence and critical thinking for a 12 step group

[Marnieworld]

I apologize for the snarkiness. Yes I know it works for many people. I have a personal bias against them. But as you have discovered it is no more effective than an individual quitting on their own. In fact I've seen data that says it is less effective.

I'm surprised that you didn't mention the whole religious aspect of it and how that interferes with the separation of church and state when it is legally required of a person to go as part of a sentence.

Congrats on your very real sobriety. For anyone, by any means, to quit heroin it is truly an accomplishment. I quit the very addictive substance of nicotine 10 years ago after a 6 year habit. Oddly enough I did it without a group and I can say unequivocally that I will never be a smoker again despite that.

I am glad when anyone finds something that works for them of course but for some people they are stronger on their own than in a group. Some people are not joiners. Some people will never ever believe in a higher power despite the euphemisms, all of the literature defines "God as we understood Him". Pretty lonely and hopeless if you never feel that way. If you're told that you'll never be sober or happy unless you swallow it all, I can understand how you'd keep using because you are a lost cause.

There are other options, even for help for those who don't want groups but want some guidance.

Rational Recovery is where it all is. They will understand your point of view and make sure that you don't doubt yourself and ability to stay clean despite your independence of these groups.

Check it out:
http://www.rational.org/