Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) seeks to help those struggling with alcohol addiction achieve and maintain sobriety. Specifically, Step 2 of Alcoholics Anonymous focuses on introducing the concept of a higher power and using this concept as inspiration for sobriety.
What Is Step 2 of AA?
Alcoholics Anonymous Step 2 states that, “We came to be aware that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.” This step follows the first step, in which an individual admits they have an alcohol problem and are powerless to stop drinking on their own
Step 2 in the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous encourages AA participants to realize that they need spiritual help to move forward in life. As mentioned, many participants take a religious approach, but there are other ways to complete Step 2. For those who aren’t religious, focusing on attaining your best self, the love you want your family to feel, inspiration from a famous person in history, or even a fictional character can all help guide your actions on your journey toward sobriety.
What Is the Purpose of Step 2 of AA?
In Step 2, you’ll come to the understanding that you’re not able to overcome alcohol use disorder on your own and that you need the support of a higher power—whatever that may mean to you—in order to focus your efforts and help you establish positive mental health. This Step lays a solid foundation that you’ll be able to lean on as you continue through the recovery process.
