12-step Programs & Facilitated Interventions

Twelve-Steps work well compared to other treatments according to a meta-analysis performed by researchers collaborating at top medical schools. After evaluating 35 studies — involving the work of 145 scientists and the outcomes of 10,080 participants, Keith Humphrey, PhD. from Stanford Medical School, and John Kelly, PhD. at Harvard Medical School determined that AA was nearly always found to be more effective than psychotherapy in achieving abstinence. In addition, most studies showed that AA participation lowered health care costs.

Their research in 2020 and 2021 found that twelve-step programs and twelve-step facilitated interventions, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), are highly effective in helping individuals recover from substance use disorders. These programs not only produce positive outcomes but also do so at a relatively low cost.

Twelve-step programs are peer support groups that follow a set of guiding principles to help members achieve and maintain sobriety. These programs are free and widely accessible, making them an attractive option for many seeking recovery.

The study highlights that individuals participating in twelve-step programs show significant improvements in abstinence rates, overall functioning, and psychological well-being. The community and accountability aspects of these programs are particularly beneficial, providing a support network that encourages continued sobriety.

One of the major advantages of twelve-step programs is their cost-effectiveness. Because they are largely volunteer-driven and do not require professional facilitators or expensive treatments, they offer a highly affordable option for those seeking recovery. This makes them accessible to a broader range of individuals, regardless of financial situation.

For those looking for an effective and low-cost way to achieve sobriety, twelve-step programs offer a promising solution. They provide robust support and proven results without the high costs associated with other forms of treatment.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the study published on PubMed here​ (NCBI)​.