After being in recovery for a certain amount of time. The recovering addict will have to make decisions as to when they will let those around them know what they are going through and what exactly to tell different people. For those who are in the earlier stages of recovery. This can be a difficult time as many people who are at this stage fluctuate between being incredibly proud of themselves and experiencing shame and behaving secretively.
It is common for a person who is recently excelling in their recovery to be excited and overjoyed by their abstinence. Thus, wanting everyone to know how well they are doing. This is especially true for those in recovery for the first time. This can therefore create a problem for the concept of anonymity which is fundamental to all 12 step programs. Understanding the notion of ‘anonymity’ in 12 step programs takes work. To be able to fully grasp not only the meaning but the importance of it too.
12 Step Program
The rudimentary form of anonymous in 12 step programmes is that every member is required to keep their membership to programs. Such as Alcoholics Anonymous, to themselves when speaking to public bodies. This means the press, film, television or radio, basically the ‘media’ in general. Being part of such a programme requires that members do not reveal their own membership or anyone else who attends or partakes in these programs. Nevertheless, this has been put into disrepute with the growing obsession with celebrities and their addiction problems. Who are happy to and choose to speak openly about their 12 step programs to various media outlets.
Announcing one’s recovery publicly is not going against the principles of the 12 step program. However, discussing the participation, membership, or attendance in any specific 12-step program does count as breaching anonymity of their group. Jeopardizing the traditions which have been designed to maintain protection, safety, unity and integrity of the group and its members.
Anonymity
Keeping such a strong sense of privacy is important as relapse is very common amongst those struggling with addiction. The anonymity is therefore an advantage for every member who joins a 12 step program. The possibility of a relapse is high, which is a discomforting feeling at best; if this relapse is public the shame may be too great to embark on recovery again. Furthermore, public awareness of multiple relapse may present the image of addiction being impossible to overcome, which is not the case. It is of course a long and arduous battle but the possibilities of remaining sober are great.
Therefore, the notion of ‘anonymity’ in 12 step programs is incredibly important to protect not only those within the programs but also those who are currently abusing themselves. Having respect for the anonymity of the 12 step program creates esteem around the programs. This will in turn create an even higher regard for sobriety and abstinence. The groups in themselves are incredible places to receive recognition of one’s accomplishments and achievements in order to sustain and perpetuate recovery.
The Haynes Clinic offers residential treatment for dependency on alcohol, drugs and prescription medication. We can also help with other addictions such as gambling and with eating disorders.