Thank you for pointing out that there are many different types of programs. This is true and important to note. For those who are interested is a link to explore some of them. https://sobernation.com/list-of-12-step-programs/

I also am aware of others that are more LDS-specific, in addition to the Addiction Recovery Program of the Church, e.g.,. SAL (SA Lifeline version of SA and S-Anon); Heart t’ Heart (founded by Colleen and Philip Harrison; Colleen’s book, He Did Deliver Me from Bondage, was the first 12-step book used in the Church); Healing through Christ (a workbook and program with phone and online meetings for loved ones of those in addiction).

I know many who benefit from specific, issue-based meetings and I would highly encourage participation in any particular group that a person feels inspired to engage in. It can often be helpful for people to attend a meeting that matches their specific “issue” and I have also seen great benefits from seeing the similar principles across programs, both in and out of the Church. My experience was the latter. I felt prompted to study various programs (I studied various -Anonymous and -Anon and other programs), and in fact, I realized I wanted to do 12-step work after doing some research in volunteer work I was doing to help others with addiction issues. The stories of addicts from various programs changed me and led me to crave the kind of changes I saw repeatedly in their stories.

I participate in panel discussions with a drug/alcohol addict and a sex addict in recovery, and we comment often about how similar our core healing journeys have been, even though our specific stories (what brought us to rooms of recovery) differ quite a bit.

Again, I do not want to take away from the reality of what you said. For many, the specific-issue meetings are powerful and helpful and critical to recovery. But I feel strongly about reiterating, also, that recovery, when done thoroughly, is ultimately not a behavioral repair program, but a unifying, belief-healing experience, a common sort of spiritual awakening experience that is not starkly different across programs. And most importantly, 12 steps can provide a framework for dealing with nearly any issue in life, and especially for learning how to rely on God and find peace in surrendering to His care. It won’t be for everyone; as you note, God works in many ways through many people and brings truth in a language that people can understand as they seek His help. For me, 12-step language was essential to my spiritual healing process, and it frames my daily life in ways I cannot adequately express. I will be eternally grateful that I was promoted to become immersed in the 12 steps.

Love you, too, and of course you can share!