AA Step 1: Admit Powerlessness
If you’ve decided to stop drinking and quit alcohol altogether, you may be wondering whether Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is the best approach on your path toward sobriety. Here, we’ll explore AA Step 1 and learn more about how you can begin your recovery journey.
What Is Step 1 of AA?
Step 1 of AA is, “We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable.”1
We’ve all heard this adage: The first step to getting well is admitting that you have a problem. It often goes against human nature to admit that we’re struggling, but AA teaches that doing so humbles us by emphasizing that help and support are necessary to overcome alcoholism.
After you admit that you are powerless against alcohol, you’ll be ready to begin the process of getting the help that you need to work toward sobriety.
What Is the Purpose of Step 1 of AA?
Step 1 of Alcoholics Anonymous requires members to admit that, in time, addiction will destroy their lives.
Going through Step 1 does not mean that a person believes that all of the good things in their lives have disappeared. Many people who are living with alcohol use disorder hold stable jobs and are contributors to their communities.
By admitting that a problem exists, AA members are forced to confront their issues with addiction, rather than continuing to pretend that they have life under control.
How to Complete Step 1 of AA?
Admitting that alcohol use has taken over your life can be deeply difficult. Many people who are thinking about trying AA find that they need to go through Step 1 several times, as it can be tempting to try to assert control over their behavior. Admitting a loss of power over alcohol—and acknowledging the need for help and support—is difficult.
Some tips to help you get through Step 1 of AA include:
- Be as objective as possible when deciding whether your life has become unmanageable, and be sure to consider the idea that even if your life is not unmanageable yet, it might become unmanageable if you continue on your current path.
- Compartmentalize guilt and shame for the moment. These feelings are incredibly common, and you will deal with them in time. Your top priority is working through the steps of AA—and that means starting with Step 1.
- Get a sponsor. Your sponsor will serve as a coach who will be with you through each step of the AA journey, and they can help you do the hard work of getting through Step 1.
How Step 1 Fits into Your Recovery Journey
AA Step 1 is the first phase of recovery. Some people find that by pacing themselves through each of the 12 Steps, they can enjoy a life of recovery. Others find that they need to work through the 12 Steps several times on their recovery journeys. AA members understand that relapse can happen. If you’re experiencing relapse and are curious about starting the program again, you’ll be welcomed with open arms.
If you’ve already reached Step 12—having a spiritual awakening upon completing the previous 11 steps of the process—but have relapsed, it’s key to return to Step 1. If you’re just getting started, you’ll be working toward Step 2, developing the belief that a higher power can help you restore your sanity.
How to Find a 12-Step AA Program
You might start a 12-Step AA program as a part of your rehab, or you may choose to start AA before you enter rehab. Many people also find that AA is a valuable part of their aftercare plan, allowing them to get the support that they need after they’ve finished an inpatient or outpatient treatment program.
Finding an AA meeting to attend is an important first step in the recovery process for many. Click here to get AA contact information for programs in your area and reach out to learn more about in-person and virtual meetings, too.
Start Your Recovery
If you’re currently enrolled or are interested in joining a 12-Step program, you may also want to consider rehab. Various levels of care are available to meet your needs, including detox, inpatient or residential treatment, and outpatient treatment.
At American Addiction Centers (AAC), our team is here to help you begin the recovery process. Whether you’re unsure about your treatment options or are simply curious about recovery, we’re here to help. Reach out to speak to one of our admissions navigators at to get the information, guidance, and support that you need. Our admissions navigators can talk to you about support groups and how they may be incorporated into your treatment. They can also help you verify your insurance, or you can fill out the form below.
In addition to providing you with information, our admission navigators can help you find the type of program that will best meet your needs. You can also look at some of the facilities listed below to see if they provide the program you are looking for:
- California: Laguna Treatment Hospital
- Florida: Recovery First Treatment Center
- Florida: River Oaks Treatment Center
- Nevada: Desert Hope Treatment Center
- Mississippi: Oxford Treatment Center
- Texas: Greenhouse Treatment Center
- Other locations: Rehabs Near Me