The truth is that alcohol treatment centers, especially in conjunction with twelve-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, have proven the most effective weapons in the fight against alcoholism and addiction yet devised. It's not that they model sober living; it's that they teach alcoholics about their disease.

Ralph N. grew up the son of alcoholic parents in Scranton, Pennsylvania. "Alcohol was not just accepted; it was expected. It was the centerpiece of our lives. The refrigerator in the garage was reserved for it. I thought that was normal. I found myself in two different Philadelphia rehab centers at two different points in my life as a result. One taught me about genetic predisposition, that the fact my parents were both alcoholic pretty much set me on my path. The other taught me the importance of proper nutrition and how to recognize relapse triggers, those people, places and things that will make me crave a drink."

Whether one does rehabilitation Philadelphia, rehab Pittsburgh or any one of many other alcohol treatment centers in or out of Pennsylvania, perhaps the most important function served is that of education. The alcoholic can never again claim ignorance about their own disease. They can also never again claim ignorance of the tools necessary for recovery from it. One of these tools the most effective alcohol treatment centers provide is the "roadmap" to AA, otherwise known as Alcoholics Anonymous.

AA is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope in recovery that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. There are no dues or fees; they are fully self supporting through their own contributions. They are also not allied with any outside organization, institution or enterprise. AA brings to the task of recovery experience and full knowledge of what the recovery task demands: rigorous honesty and a commitment to a life of principle that precludes the craving for drink. It is an ongoing commitment that requires conscious participation in one's own recovery by way of service to alcoholics that still suffer, as well as awareness of the importance of living life on life's terms.

As Ralph N. puts it: "Life on life's terms means knowing my family can live how they want. But that I can stay out of the garage when I visit. Now that I know that, I'm a much happier man."

Twelve Palms Recovery Center, a unique example of compassionate alcohol treatment centers, focuses their efforts on the individual. They also emphasize the importance of the 12-step model by not only encouraging AA attendance, but hosting AA meetings, as well. For additional information call 866-331-6779 any time, 24 hours a day.