These other issues pertain to environmental, microsocial, psychiatric, and underlying neurobiological issues. Some researchers and practitioners have cautioned against employing such a slogan too literally that there are a variety of issues that may need to be addressed immediately in early recovery, possibly before or concurrently with quitting use of alcohol or another drug. Certainly, focusing on a sustained effort not to drink or use is imperative however, to achieve and maintain sobriety sometimes the “first” thing may not actually be putting down the drink or the drug. 2 Thus, when an AA member experiences a “slip” the implication is that the member has allowed some other problem to assume a greater priority ( Rayburn and Wright (2009). “First Things First” generally emphasizes the importance of not drinking or using no matter what. However, slogans assume a subjective meaning and at times different interpretations may become a source of confusion and distress for individuals very early in their recovery. Slogans are meant to be helpful, act as a heuristic, and serve as a source of direction and comfort when a member feels anxious or distressed. Straussner and Byrne (2009) propose that future research would benefit from identifying the mechanisms of change that occurs through twelve step program participation and suggest that perhaps the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) slogan “First Things First,” is helpful for members because they may have poor multitasking skills or low tolerance to stress (either as a consequence of prolonged alcoholism or as a contributing factor to their alcohol misuse). This slogan reminds the participant to remember one's priorities to maintain a concentrated focus on prioritizing recovery so that the chances of success are not diminished to do the next right thing or more simply to just not drink or use ( Herbert, 2012 Kelly & McCrady, 2008 Sifers & Peltz, 2013). One of the key slogans in the recovery movement is “First Things First” (e.g., White, 2002), although its origin is unknown. Slogans are brief phrases that can provide direction or assist with coping.

One central element of achieving lasting sobriety in recovery 1 movement (12-step) programs-along with working the steps, following the traditions, taking on a sponsor, and participating in the fellowship, among other features-is taking guidance from slogans ( Kelly & McCrady, 2008). First Things First: What is the First Thing?

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