Women for Sobriety

Women for Sobriety (WFS) is an abstinence-based, self-help program designed to address the specific needs of women in recovery. The program focuses on nurturing feelings of self-value and self-worth while helping women release feelings of guilt, shame, and humiliation. WFS is unique in that it is an organization created by women, for women, offering a supportive and empowering environment tailored specifically for them. 

www.womenforsobriety.org  

All Substances and Behaviors  (Focus on Substances) 

Secular

Founded in 1975 by Dr. Jean Kirkpatrick, Ph.D, Women for Sobriety is the first peer-support program designed specifically for women overcoming substance use disorders. The New Life Program offers supportive, empowering, secular, and life-affirming principles through both regional and online meetings, addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by women in recovery. 

The WFS approach is built around The New Life Program, which is structured on 13 affirmations that encourage self-love, self-worth, and emotional and psychological growth. This program emphasizes positive thinking, building self-esteem, and addressing the unique challenges that women may face in recovery, including trauma, societal pressures, and co-occurring mental health issues. The philosophy of the Women for Sobriety New Life Program is that the image precedes our actions. Whatever we think, we eventually act out. If our thoughts are always negative, our actions will also be negative. If our thoughts are positive, so are our actions.

The WFS Acceptance Statements are the recovering woman’s guide to everyday thinking and living. As the New Life Program evolved, participants began to request a step-by-step guide for recovery as well. In response, WFS’s founder defined the Levels of Recovery. The WFS Program has helped thousands of women achieve a new life through these levels, fostering lasting recovery and personal growth.

Beginner’s Collection by Jean Kirkpatrick, Ph.D.  

1. I have a life-threatening problem that once had me. I now take charge of my life and my well-being. I accept the responsibility.
2. Negative thoughts destroy only myself. My first conscious sober act is to reduce negativity in my life.
3. Happiness is a habit I am developing. Happiness is created, not waited for.
4. Problems bother me only to the degree I permit. I now better understand my problems. I do not permit problems to overwhelm me.
5. I am what I think. I am a capable, competent, caring, compassionate woman.
6. Life can be ordinary or it can be great. Greatness is mine by a conscious effort.
7. Love can change the course of my world. Caring is all-important.
8. The fundamental object of life is emotional and spiritual growth. Daily I put my life into a proper order, knowing which are the priorities.
9. The past is gone forever. No longer am I victimized by the past. I am a new woman.
10. All love given returns. I am learning to know that I am loved.
11. Enthusiasm is my daily exercise. I treasure the moments of my New Life.
12. I am a competent woman, and I have much to give life. This is what I am, and I shall know it always.
13. I am responsible for myself and for my actions. I am in charge of my mind, my thoughts, and my life.

1. Acceptance of Substance Use Disorder (Acceptance Statement 1): Acknowledges the need for cessation of substance use, recognizing it as a disorder requiring abstinence. This stage involves understanding the impact of substances on the body and mind, and seeking support within the group to alleviate the sense of isolation.
2. Overcoming Negative Thoughts and Practices (Acceptance Statements 2, 4, and 9): Focuses on addressing and transforming negative thought patterns and behaviors. This involves detailed self-examination through writing and honesty, establishing a physical exercise routine, and incorporating relaxation and meditation. It requires time and may involve revisiting earlier stages during periods of stress.
3. Creating and Practicing a New Self-Image (Acceptance Statements 5 and twelve): Emphasizes replacing irrational and negative attitudes with positive, realistic thoughts. This level encourages creating a pleasant and attractive environment and understanding that personal thoughts shape feelings and perceptions.
4. Enforcing New Behavior Patterns (Acceptance Statements 3, 6, and 11): Highlights the importance of choosing a positive outlook on life and actively seeking happiness and enthusiasm. This stage also involves sharing joy and enthusiasm with others to enhance personal happiness.
5. Improving Relationships through New Self-Feelings (Acceptance Statements 7 and 10): Centers on the significance of caring and loving relationships. It stresses that personal recovery is deeply linked to the ability to give and receive love, and to feel good about oneself to foster healthy relationships with others.
6. Recognizing Life’s Priorities (Acceptance Statements 8 and 13): Focuses on emotional and spiritual growth, self-responsibility, and nurturing a personal spiritual connection. This stage is characterized by self-acceptance, confidence, and a peaceful resolution of addiction issues, leading to a fulfilling and liberated life.

In-person: www.womenforsobriety.org/meetings

Online: www.wfsonline.org