Jan 28, 2015 | By Tim Stoddart
Everything You Need to Know About SMART Recovery
RecoveryWhat is SMART Recovery?
Although 12-step programs have helped many people recover from substance abuse and addiction, the methodology of surrendering one’s self to a higher power and the generally non-scientific approach has come under some critical scrutiny. Attendance of these programs is usually a compulsory part of a drug court sentence, yet the success rate of 12-step programs is fairly low, anywhere from 10-20 percent. The one component of 12-step programs that is thought to be most effective is the support and camaraderie found within the group of recovering individuals.
SMART (Self Management and Recovery Training) Recovery combines a strong support community with evidence-based methods of counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational techniques. The program is organized in a secular manner and focuses on helping addicts remain abstinent from drug or alcohol use. This is not a 12-step program; this is a group-facilitated, self-help program that focuses on the future development of healthy coping mechanisms, as opposed predicating a treatment program on the hope for divine intervention to cure addiction.
The Methodology of SMART Recovery
SMART Recovery uses non-confrontational motivation counseling as an impetus for change in an addicted individual. The program does not use the 12 steps that comprise Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or other similar programs. Instead, SMART Recovery focuses on 4 areas for the recovering individual to foster change within:
- Building Motivation
- Coping with Urges
- Problem Solving
- Lifestyle Balance
Throughout the journey to sobriety, SMART Recovery recognizes various stages of change that an addict experiences. These are:
- Pre-contemplation – This is the time before an addict may even recognize their problem with drugs or alcohol.
- Contemplation – The addict weighs the benefits and drawbacks of continuing their addictive behavior.
- Determination and Preparation – The addict commits to fully engaging in SMART Recovery exercises.
- Action – The addict actively seeks out ways to address their addictive behavior.
- Maintenance – After participation in treatment, the addict’s behavior has changed, and they seek to maintain these changes.
- Relapse – Not all recovering individuals experience this stage. However, SMART Recovery recognizes relapses as an important part of the change cycle, seeing it as an important learning process if properly handled.
- Termination – After a long-lived period of sobriety, this final stage is when the recovered addict may choose to move on from the SMART Recovery program.
Why SMART Recovery Works
The science based, self-empowering ethos behind SMART Recovery has helped countless people learn to live satisfying, sober lives. It is recognized by the American Academy of Family Physicians, the Center for Health Care Evaluation, The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), US Department of Health and Human Services and the American Society of Addiction Medicine as an effective and valid resource for addiction recovery.
SMART Recovery works by providing the addicted individual with an effective mental and emotional toolbox to address the issues from which substance abuse arises. During the SMART Recovery process, addicts learn to self-correct problematic thoughts, actions and emotions that contribute to the cycle of substance abuse. Through community, solid therapeutic concepts, counseling techniques and education, this program continues to evolve and advance the field of chemical dependency treatment. Those wanting to learn more about the program can visit SMARTRecovery.org for tools, meeting information and online resources.
nick
9 years ago
There’s like one meeting in the whole Chicago area, compared to thousands of 12 step.. I new a guy in my sober house who wanted to try it but couldn’t even find group or leader….
Myra
9 years ago
SMART Recovery is now being Valparaiso, IN …. It’s truly amazing the connection in Culture of Recovery with SMART Recovery. The 4-Points program offers to tool and techniques for each program point:
1. Building and Maintaining Motivation
2. Coping with Urges
3. Managing Thoughts, Feelings, and Behaviors
4. Living a Balance Life
Many participants utilize these points in every aspect of their lives and with their loved one to utilize in their lives.
Donna St Rock
9 years ago
i would like to use some of the Smart Recovery techniques in my intensive outpatient program for substance abuse and mental health .
Kim
9 years ago
I’m so glad to see something that doesn’t require ” My name is ________, and I’m an alcoholic.” Because I’m not!
Sue
9 years ago
Hey Nick: There are about 15 meetings in the Chicago area. A handful are in treatment locations and open only to clients. The remainder are open. To find a local SMART check the meeting list http://www.smartrecovery.org/meetings_db/view/ SMART also offers online support including daily meetings http://www.smartrecovery.org/community. Best to you on your recovery.
Sue
9 years ago
Hi Donna:
Cool idea and one that is becoming more and more popular lately. 🙂
You can find information on “SMART Training” on the SMART website: http://www.smartrecovery.org/facldtrain/JointheFacilitatorTeam.htm
Tina
8 years ago
Know dead people that tried this …not so smart
Earl Montague
8 years ago
Tina, while you may have a different choice in recovery, don’t deny others options that can work for them.
I spent 10 years in AA (have you?) because I was told my other options were “death, insanity, and prison”, and was quite depressed with those options and the “powerlessness” that were beat into my head.
Try this article: https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/overcoming-addiction/201408/alcoholics-anonymous-depression-and-suicide
If 12-step works for you, then use it… but please don’t be yet another 12-step tool that believes every single person should be using 12 step and nothing else.
Earl
Recent Articles
Warning Signs of a Drug Relapse: Spot Them Early
How to Quit Cocaine: Overcoming Addiction & Withdrawal Symptoms
Non 12 Step Fellowships for Flexible Recovery
What are 12-Step Programs? Explore Their Principles and Impact?
What is Relapse? Understanding Recovery’s Twists and Turns?
Question About Treatment
Get Confidential help 24/7
(866) 207-7436Who Answers
Contact Sober Nation's Sponsored Hotline
If you are seeking drug and alcohol related addiction rehab for yourself or a loved one, the SoberNation.com hotline is a confidential and convenient solution.
Calls to any general hotline (non-facility) will be answered by Treatment Addiction Solutions
Alternatives to finding addiction treatment or learning about substance:
If you wish to contact a specific rehab facility then find a specific rehab facility using our treatment locator page or visit SAMHSA.gov.
To learn more about how Sober Nation operates, please contact us