Founded in 1971, the Emotions Anonymous 12-step recovery program shares structural similarities with Alcoholics Anonymous but is for people who suffer from emotional issues. The program is great for people who are experiencing anxiety, loss, depression, grief, anger, low self-esteem and many other emotional stressors. There are 12-step programs for depression and anxiety and for many different emotional and mental health issues; if you don’t see yours immediately, consider reaching out to your local meeting center for more information on how and when these specifically needed sessions could take place.
600 Active Groups
There are more than 600 active groups in 30 countries that offer group meetings and apply the 12-step approach used in AA. The goal of the Emotions Anonymous 12-step program is to help the individual attain full psychosocial function while also avoiding negative or self-harming behaviors.
No Sharing Required
As the name anonymous would suggest, members are not required to disclose personal information. This allows participants to share as much or as little as they’re comfortable doing while still benefiting from the program as a whole.
A Higher Power & Community
Although the 12 steps focus on finding help and peace in a higher power, this concept is open to interpretation among its members. A major benefit of this group for newcomers is the idea that no one is alone in their struggle — while situations and symptoms may differ, the underlying depression and anxiety remain the same.
Groups for Behavioral Problems
Members are not required to stop any medications, and group meetings can be used in conjunction with traditional therapy. Sometimes 12-step programs are even suggested by therapists for additional support. The sense of community from these groups can be of great value to members who struggle with loneliness. The act of getting out of the house and attending a meeting can serve as an accomplishment as well.
This 12-step program can also be adapted to other problem behaviors, too, such as helping bipolar patients who suffer from compulsive spending or adult children of alcoholics who have feelings of worthlessness from an abusive childhood. Codependents Anonymous, for example, addresses the issues of feeling responsible for another person’s success or failure, which may lead to depression, panic attacks and more. Each program offers a sense of understanding and a wealth of anecdotal support from members who have lived similar experiences.