05/31/2026
The 12 Steps of Recovery with PDAP
Step 5: Integrity
“Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.” This Step involves openly acknowledging the harm caused by one’s addiction, both to oneself and to others. This step is a deeply personal and honest conversation that typically builds on the written inventory previously created. It requires individuals to share the truth of their past actions and behaviors, not only with themselves, but also with others and a higher power.
This process can be difficult, but it is a key part of moving forward with accountability, healing, and self-awareness. The goal is to lower one’s risk of destructive coping by release of guilt. Shame creates a cycle of relapse that is challenging to break. Unburdening yourself, helps you avoid unhealthy coping.