Addiction affects everyone differently, so it only makes sense that people will thrive with different approaches to recovery. If you have tried overcoming addiction without lasting success, you may want to consider 12-step-based treatment. Although initially started as the basis for Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), 12-step-based treatment is also being incorporated into addiction treatment programs for drug addiction. As part of the 12 steps, you take time to examine your flaws, known as defects of character. Here you will learn what character defects are and how facing them head-on can facilitate your recovery.
Are you interested in learning more about 12-step-based treatment and how it can help you heal from addiction for good? Call Promises Brazos Valley at 979.426.0086 to talk with our team. We weave the principles of the 12 steps into our treatment programs so you can experience a healthier, happier, sober lifestyle.
What Are Defects of Character?
Defects of character are personal attributes that prevent you from functioning as well as you could. They are also sometimes referred to as shortcomings. They can be difficult-to-break habits because they are ingrained in your personality. They can also be anxieties and fears that make it hard for you to function normally in social situations. Defects of character may not be morally wrong, but they do cause problems in your life, both physical and emotional.
Everyone has defects of character or personal flaws that they are not proud of. Sometimes people deny their shortcomings but often do not realize they have a particular character defect until it is pointed out. If you are following a 12-step-based treatment program, you must confront your character defects to help you recover. Here are some common examples of defects of character:
- Blaming others
- Boastfulness
- Greediness
- Impatience
- Jealousy
- Laziness
- Self-centeredness
- Ungratefulness
This is only a short list of character defects but a great place to start. Recognizing your flaws openly and without judgment can be difficult, but it is vital for your addiction recovery.
What Links Defects of Character and Recovery from Addiction?
How do defects of character and recovery go together? Part of 12-step-based treatment is recognizing wrongdoings but also your shortcomings. This approach to addiction recovery goes deeper into what makes people turn to drugs or alcohol in the first place. By identifying your character defects, you can examine how they developed, how they have hurt you or others, and what you can do to improve yourself.
Why does this matter for recovery? Character defects often play an important role in substance misuse. For example, if you blame others for your problems, you may feel powerless or like a victim. A victim mentality can stop you from making good choices since you think everything is out of your control. This can increase stress, vulnerability to depression or other mental health issues, and substance misuse.
Working through a character defect, like blaming others, teaches you to recognize your role in your current situation. You can then learn how to step into your power and make better choices in all areas of your life. Regarding addiction, you start taking responsibility for responding to stressors and exert that power by saying no to drugs or alcohol.
Find Recovery Support in Texas at Promises Brazos Valley
If you are ready to face your character defects and make lasting changes, contact Promises Brazos Valley at 979.426.0086 or complete our online form. Our 12-step-based treatment programs provide unwavering support as our clients embark on their individual recovery journeys. Our caring and compassionate team of professionals is standing by to help you or your loved one on the path to addiction recovery and a happier, more fulfilling life.