are the cornerstone of the recovery process and the spiritual foundation of the organization known as Narcotics Anonymous. These tenets, established by the founders of the fellowship, provide guidelines for living a life of sobriety and recovery. while some may be familiar with the twelve steps of addiction recovery, the traditional ways of carrying the message of NA to those still struggling are deeply influenced by these traditions.
The First Tradition: Our Common Welfare
Emphasizes the unity of purpose that exists within the NA community. The member must always strive to consider the welfare and best interests of the entire fellowship, not just individually. This tradition underscores the importance of mutual support and the collective responsibility that comes with being part of a larger whole.
The Second Tradition: The Only Authority
Asserts the need for members to rely on a higher power, rather than personal desires or opinions, to overcome addiction. This concept recognizes that NA is not a substitute for professional medical treatment and that members should not look to past success nor rely solely on personal experiences when seeking sobriety and recovery.
The Third Tradition: The Only Requirement for Membership
Stresses the simplicity of getting started with the NA program-mere desire to stop using. The tradition affirms that any person, regardless of the substances滥用 history, race, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or financial condition, is invited and welcome to join the fellowship.
The Fourth Tradition: Group Autonomy
Guarantees the independence of each group, allowing them to operate independently from one another yet still be connected by their shared purpose. this tradition also suggests that the group decision-making process should remain decentralized, with members taking an active role in guiding the organization.
The Fifth Tradition: The Only Primary Purpose of a Group
Focuses on the responsibility of each group to carry the message of NA to individuals in addiction. The tradition encourages groups to develop their own unique strategies and approach to reaching out to the community, recognizing the diversity of individuals seeking help.
The Sixth Tradition: Non-Affiliation
States the need to avoid any type of affiliation or association that could potentially divert attention away from the organizations main goal. This includes not endorsing, funding, or promoting any related facilities or outside enterprises that may impact the groups ability to focus on their recovery mission.
The Seventh Tradition: Full Self-Support
Emphasizes the importance of relying solely on internal resources for supporting the operations of the group. This tradition encourages groups to be self-sufficient and not rely on external contributions, ensuring that financial decisions are made in line with the groups recovery principles.
The Eighth Tradition: Professionalism
While NA itself remains non-professional, service centers may employ special workers. This tradition recognizes the need for trained and dedicated individuals to carry out the day-to-day operations of the service, ensuring that the core principles of NA are upheld.
The Ninth Tradition: Service Structures
States that while the fellowship itself is notorganized, service boards or committees can be created to directly serve the groups. This tradition suggests that the NA experience is best supported through local, community-based organizations that align with the core principles of recovery.
The Tenth Tradition: No Public Controversy
Affirms the NA name and reputation should not be drawn into public controversies. This tradition emphasizes the importance of maintaining a focus on the recovery experience, avoiding unnecessary political or controversial discussions that could distract from the main goal of helping others.
The Eleventh Tradition: Attraction而非 Promotion
States the public relations policy of NA should be based on attraction rather than promotion. This tradition stresses the importance of maintaining a low profile and avoiding drawing unnecessary attention to the organization that could potentially undermine its work.
The Twelfth Tradition: Anonymity
Covers the spiritual foundation of all the traditions and emphasizes that NA members must always maintain confidentiality when discussing their experiences and achievements. This tradition affirms the importance of privacy, recognizing that individuals seeking help are often dealing with complex and sensitive issues.