Despite alcohol being the most accessible and normalised drug, help remains equally accessible through the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) 12-step model. This model has been the basis for over 30 other fellowships, like Gamblers Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. The UK’s addiction crisis is worsening, with significant increases in eating disorders, screen-based addictions, and gambling addictions over the past three years. Drug-related deaths have risen by 80% over the last decade, and alcohol-related deaths hit a record high in 2022.

Addiction affects all corners of society, with family members’ poor mental health or substance misuse disorder critical causes of future addiction in children. AA offers a grassroots, self-governed, non-professional approach that is instantly accessible, free, and provides lifelong support. Studies, including a 2020 review by the Cochrane Collaboration, found AA to be as effective as cognitive behavioural therapy, emphasising its benefits in emotional management and spirituality. The program’s focus on spirituality and giving back fosters a supportive community, helping individuals not just achieve sobriety, but live better lives.

For more information, visit UK has an addiction crisis – is 12-step recovery the answer?.