Step 12

“By the time we’ve got to Step 12, we’ve done a lot of work on processing the past and putting right our mistakes. We’ve also undoubtedly grown in humility, character and recovery.

They say “you can only keep what you have by giving it away” and nothing will provide more of a sense of wellbeing and purpose than trying to carry the message to others who are still struggling with their dual diagnosis.

Another good reason to practice Step 12 is that carrying the recovery message in meetings or to sponsees provides one of the best defences against picking up our addiction of choice.

Whatever way you look at it, this Step is big and requires that we’re practising the programme in our lives and take steps every day to make sure that we’re making progress. I have to confess that sometimes it has felt like I’m getting worse and not better. The truth is though, becoming aware of more stuff or of new stuff, is actually a sign that we’re getting well, rather than a sign that we’re going backwards.”