Narcotics Anonymous the Primary Purpose

Narcotics Anonymous

The primary purpose of the Narcotics Anonymous program is very similar to the first similar program, Alcoholics Anonymous. In principle, the concept is based on the recognition that social embarrassment and shame are significant barriers to seeking treatment for substance addiction. Therefore, the central feature of all such programs is the guarantee of anonymity. This allows substance abusers, addicts, and alcoholics to obtain counseling services in a supportive environment without worrying about social embarrassment or the stigma that is generally associated with publicly disclosing problems of this nature.

The design of the Narcotics Anonymous program is a series of voluntarily attended group meetings with other individuals facing similar substance abuse issues, addiction, and the problems that are typically associated with abuse and addiction. The group meetings are usually led by someone who has already achieved long-term sobriety after previous completion of the Narcotics Anonymous program. Group members introduce themselves to others by their first names or, if they so choose, by an alias to completely preserve their anonymity.

The system is based on the fundamental beliefs that the key to sobriety is fulfilment of the Twelve-Step principles of recovery from substance addictions and other compulsive behaviors. Another important element of the Narcotics Anonymous concept is the assignment of "sponsors" who are ordinarily more experienced group members who are available at any time to their assigned members. The purpose of this element is to provide a support system at times of crisis such as situations where members fear they cannot resist the urge to relapse into substance abuse. Members are supposed to call their designated sponsor at any time of day or not if they experience an uncontrollable urge to use drugs. Generally, Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous programs also award members with sobriety chips or other methods of recognition or rewards symbolizing the successful maintenance of sobriety for specific periods of time.

Effect

The main activity of the Narcotics Anonymous meetings consists of individuals sharing their personal stories and experiences with other members of the group. In doing so, group members often become much more open and honest begin to realize that their experiences are very similar to those of many other people who have similar problems with substance abuse and other addictions.

In many cases, the effect of participation in the group has the effect of helping group members become more honest with themselves as well as with the group about their problems. Because most addicts tend to develop very similar defense mechanisms to help them deny the magnitude of their problems, the experience of hearing others describe problems and consequences that are very similar to theirs helps them recognize that they are in denial of their problems.