Basics
What does "12-Step" mean?
A recovery program based on 12 guiding steps for personal growth.
Open = anyone can attend.
Closed = only people with a desire to stop using.
True of False: You can just sit quietly and still benefit from meetings.
True
(but participation helps more).
True or False: All meetings are the same.
False
What does MAT stand for?
Medication-Assisted Treatment.
True of False: 12-Step Programs are free.
True
What kind of meeting focuses on going through the Steps in detail?
Step Study.
What is a sponsor?
A more experienced person in recovery who guides you through recovery and step work.
Name one MAT medication for opioid use disorder.
Methadone, Suboxone (Buprenorphine), or Naltrexone.
Who typically runs 12-Step meetings?
Peers - people in recovery.
What type of meeting usually features one person sharing their recovery story?
Speaker meeting.
Give one example of service work you can do at a meeting?
What might make someone choose a small meeting over a large one?
True or False: All 12-Step groups welcome people on MAT.
False (some are, some aren't).
What is the main focus of 12-Step Programs:
(A) Treatment
(B) Community
(C) Medication
True or False: All meetings are co-ed (with men and women).
False.
What does it mean to "take what works and leave the rest?"
Be open minded and use the information that works and relates to you, and leave what doesn't.
If someone is nervous about sharing, what type of meeting might be easiest to start with?
Speaker meeting because you're mostly just listening.
If someone on MAT is told they're not welcome in one group, what should they do?
Try a different group -- there are MAT-friendly options.
What does "one day at a time" mean in 12-Step Recovery?
Focusing on staying sober/recovery just for today, not forever.
Name one way to find out if a group is MAT friendly?
Check local meeting listings.
Check online notes.
Call and ask directly.
Ask someone who's gone to the group.
Why is consistency (going regularly) important?
Builds trust, accountability, and stronger and recovery support.
Why might someone attend more than one kind of meeting?
To find the best fir and get different perspectives.
How can MAT and 12-Step programs work together in recovery?
MAT helps with physical dependence, while 12-Step offers social and emotional support.