The Importance Of Step One In NA

The Narcotics Anonymous (NA) organization promotes a drug-free lifestyle. Recovering addicts who have struggled with substance abuse or drug addiction may find that Narcotics Anonymous offers a supportive environment for learning and growth.

While all twelve steps are important to recovery, the first step builds the foundation for overcoming active addiction. 

The First Step Of NA

The first step is pulled from the basic text of principles used at 12-step meetings: “We admitted that we were powerless over our addiction, that our lives had become unmanageable.”

Recognizing Powerlessness

Recognizing your powerlessness against the disease of addiction is a groundbreaking revelation that’s likely necessary for your recovery. 

Acknowledging that you have a problem by understanding the unmanageability of your addiction shows open-mindedness and commitment. In fact, it may be the first time many drug abusers understand the importance of changing their lives for the better.

Spiritual Awakening

The first step also paves the way for the spiritual principles of NA to take over. By acknowledging that a self-centeredness or self-involved way of life was problematic, you open the door for spiritual growth that challenges who you want to be as a person.

Narcotics Anonymous Meetings

NA programs and memberships are free and open to all. 

During a meeting, you can introduce yourself and explain your history with addiction. You’ll soon realize that many others suffer from similar struggles. This can give you a safe and supportive community to confide in.

Online Options

Like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step programs, Narcotics Anonymous World Services also provides a wide range of other resources including virtual meetings and phone meetings. 

NA World Services also hosts webinars, conventions, and conferences around the world.

Other Important Steps Of Narcotics Anonymous

The importance of the first step of NA can’t be overstated. It is imperative that NA members understand and apply the first step to their own lives. 

In addition to step one, there are other important steps such as:

• The second step: “We came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.”
• The fifth step: “We admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.”
• The sixth step: “We were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.”
• The ninth step: “We made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.”
• The tenth step: “We continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.”
• The eleventh step: “We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.”

It should be noted that the term “god” stated within the twelve steps may be mentioned at meetings. However, this word refers to a higher power than oneself. Agnostics and atheists who struggle with addiction are welcome at NA meetings. 

Additional Addiction Treatment Options

If you or a loved one have turned to the use of drugs, detox and professional care options are available. You can find both inpatient and outpatient options as well as a number of treatment programs that address your overall mental health. 

To start your recovery process, please connect with us today.