Because 12-step programs are anonymous and there is no record-keeping of meetings and members, it’s hard to answer this question. Determining how many people are able to get and stay clean using 12-step programs would be, at best, a guess. However, the prominence of these programs and the stories of success from those in recovery suggest that it is effective. Probably the most effective way to make good use of 12-step programs is to use them in conjunction with other recovery options. Nearly three-quarters of alcohol and drug addiction treatment facilities incorporate the 12-steps into their addiction treatment plans, so when patients complete treatment, it’s likely that they are already familiar with 12-step programs making it easy to continue with them in the future. At the very least, 12-step programs provide members with support and encouragement from others who are battling addiction successfully, and it places them close to others who understand what they are going through.