So What's Your Best Shot at Long-Term Sobriety?

In the US alcohol abuse is very prominent, and it not showing any signs of getting better. Though sad, it really isn't surprising based on the shocking statistic that 50% of the country had an alcoholic beverage in the last month.

The most common method to deal with alcoholism is to go the traditional route of a faith-based twelve step program. In media outlets and movies alike, this is the most frequently associated form of rehabilitation - the famous 12 steps. The part that isn't publicized in most of the stories is that most go through these programs multiple times over without successfully conquering their addiction. In fact, the rate for relapse for those who attend 12 step programs are approximately 90-95%.

If that gives a sense of apathy, don't lose hope just yet as there are other options. On the flip side, non 12 step alcohol rehab programs typically only see 20-30% of the people that they initially helped return due to relapse. That means a 70% or greater chance at success - what a difference! While AA truly does want to help people, the methods they use are outdated and proven ineffective. This is why a completely different philosophical approach was created that produces results.

Another major deterrent to the 12 step process is a lot of people are left out in the cold because of their religious beliefs. Very specific religious doctrines play a large part in the 12 steps; and the reality is this excludes atheists as well as others with different religious beliefs.

Individuals of different faiths can have their needs met at alternative alcohol treatment centers. A person's spiritual beliefs do not come into play, unless of course they so desires. As important as religion is to an individual, it is not integral to one's recovery.

The majority of individuals who attend these types of programs spend approximately 90 days. However, in the best facilities no set time is usually predetermined as treatment continues for as long as it's needed for each case. The length of stay can be anywhere from two to twenty-four months.

There is no cookie cutter approach to dealing with addiction at these successful facilities. Their methods vary from one location to the next, but they do follow a core program that yields great results. Modern practices like cognitive behavioral therapy are used. This method helps the person look at their behavior and the things necessary to change it to a more productive path. The major difference is accountability. In a safe environment a person explores their triggers to addiction and how they can have power over it. Then it is possible for them to learn how to act in those situations free of their addictive crutches.

They are given the help they need to initially kick the habit, as well as, the necessary skills to prevent them from reverting back once they leave the program. Once the new behavior is in place the person has a much higher chance of succeeding. Non 12 step alcohol rehabs teach a person how to remove the addict label and live again.