hiya i am new to aa meetings, and i find that when i dont go i lose my programme.
The addiction is only step one that we admit we are powerless over alcohol (or another substacne such as heroin) and our lives have become unmanageable. Getting through the withdrawal is only one step in the process. To maintain a clean and sober life, we must apply the steps to the whole aspect of our lives. We blame people, things stress for picking up drink or a drug, and this is the area we need to focus on. Not picking up that first drink or drug, as it wil lead to destruction.
I find that even without an addiction the twelve step programme is a good way of living a calmer, life, and accepting life on lifes terms. By respecting others, and being in a fellowship where you dont feel alone. It can be overwhelming, but god doesnt have to mean religion. It a higher power, that you give your life to in order to stay away from that addiction, and deal with emotions.
Addictions are a biproduct of emotional immaturity/instability and therefore learning to deal with emotions is the key, instead of hiding them with mind altering substances. I have been on the emotional rollercoaster, but through speaking to those in the same situation, and learning from there experience is amazing. I dont feel alone anymore, and i have faith that life is worth living. It is good now, i am becoming a better perosn and developing a spiritual path which my life will follow/

I recommend it and wish everyone luck in overcoming an addiction, however they choose to do it. but the best thing about it is it anonymous and self supporting.