Powerlessness in Recovery

Step 1 of the 12-Step programs involves the alcoholic/addict admitting that he/she is powerless over drugs and/or alcohol. The word “powerless” is problematic. Many alcoholics/addicts find it very difficult to accept the concept of powerlessness when familiarizing themselves with the Twelve Steps for the first time. In fact, I have met a fair number who have reacted so negatively to the word “powerless” that they simply turned their backs on the 12-Step fellowships before even getting started.

We could argue about the semantics of the word “powerless” and its many interpretations, but from a salesmanship point of view (after all, the founders of the 12-Step fellowships were promoters), the choice of this word is unfortunate, since it has turned away “prospects”. Some people eventually embrace a 12-Step fellowship but will nevertheless still bristle at the thought of being “powerless”. Men do not generally like being called powerless. Many modern women with (or without) a history of domestic violence and/or sexual abuse do not appreciate the implications inherent in this word. “Powerless” does not fare well in this modern age of empowerment.

Not every newcomer sticks around long enough to hear and understand an explanation of this term. Unfortunately, some reject 12-Step fellowships before having had a chance to discuss what “powerless” really means.

When discussing this issue, I like to use a medical model of addiction. A metaphoric “allergic reaction” to drugs or alcohol can be viewed as an event over which we do not have control. In the same way, an addiction can be seen as a loss of control. In fact, ANY disease is a process over which we have lost control, at least on a temporary basis. For some reason, “loss of control”, “disease”, “allergic reaction”, “illness”, and “treatment” are all terms which seem more palatable than “powerlessness”.

Not everyone has a problem with this term, but for those who do, I recommend thinking of this in terms of a medical model with a patient, a disease and a treatment. A sick person needs the care of others.

In this spirit, and using this approach, a prospective newcomer in the 12-Step fellowship may be more amenable to accepting and receiving the support, advice and help of others.