I am 505 days sober. I’ve been getting a vivitrol injection every month to help me with my cravings. I want to discontinue the injections, but my doctor thinks it’s a bad idea, because I haven’t done the 12 steps. I have a lot of support from my family and friends. I don’t hide my addiction and I’m very proud of my sobriety. Is there anyone else out there who feels the same way I do? Do I really need to do the 12 steps…..
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I am taking naultrexone currently the pill and love it.
The vivitrol really only helps curb the cravings. If you feel that you are ready to test it out and see if the urge to drink alcohol returns and you can't avoid it then you know your not ready. The minute you say to yourself I am going to have a drink is when you know. You could also switch to the pills daily to have on hand if the need arises.
I think it's good to be mindful about what you are doing and not be on auto-pilot with a drug.
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I'm ten months sober and have never had any interest in AA. My immediate family in supportive and I'm committed to my sobriety for good. I think there are so many paths that it's totally great for you to do whatever works for you!
There are two books that I'd really recommend for you if you haven't seen them: Quit Like a Woman by Holly Whittaker and This Naked Mind by Annie Grace. Both have some strong thoughts on AA not being the only path and i think they both helped me come to terms with my own decision regarding AA.
Also congrats on over 500 days! You're obviously doing something right 
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I appreciate your view on this and it's nice to see someone let other people find out what works for them I stead of saying there's only one way. Ty for the book too also....
I take naltrexone daily also it has saved me more than a few times. They give me the 50mg and I just break it in half so it costs less and lasts double
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I attend AA but not for the 12 steps; I go for the companionship of other alcoholics. It's like taking your medicine.
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Nobody has a monopoly on how to get and stay sober.
12 steps and meetings worked for me. But that’s just my experience.
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I don’t get injections nor go to AA; I get Neurofeedback 2x a week. But even if that were to stop, I’d keep up on doing the hard work to remain sober. Maybe ask about trying a tapering of your dosage, see how you feel?
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The steps are a way of life after i stopped drinking. Through the 12 steps I live happy, joyous and free. It’s a way of life.
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Thank you!!!
Also I had gotten a really bad reaction from the shot it gave me a really bad rash then I couldn't take it again
Hello: Do you "need" to do the 12 Steps? No, but it will greatly increase your chances of success now and staying in recovery in the future. I have just over 5 years clean and sober. Meetings and sponsorship, along with working the Steps, have transformed my life. Plus it costs very little.
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