Proven Methods of Sober Support: SMART Recovery
Currently, several models exist for recovery group program outlines to promote sobriety and mental wellness. If you, or someone close to you, has ever had an issue with a substance abuse disorder, the chances are high that you’re familiar, at least in some fashion, with at least one type of recovery program. In recent years, SMART Recovery has emerged as a new form of peer support and group recovery resource, but how does it differ from other such programs?
The most commonly known of all of these recovery group meetings is probably Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, also known as the program of NA. Both of these popular options include navigating sobriety (normally after inpatient or outpatient rehab) using a set of 12 steps promoting healing, humility, accountability, and other strong emotions during the aftercare portion of the recovery.
Recent history includes these types of programs dominating the group recovery industry. However, in 1994, a new type of recovery group would make its debut, using an entirely different model for assisting users.
Self-Management and Recovery Training (SMART) is a behavioral-based approach to a substance abuse disorder that emphasizes science over faith. The following section better explains SMART recovery and the specifics of this program.
What is SMART Recovery?
SMART Recovery is the most sizable alternative to Alcoholics Anonymous and the disease-based model of substance abuse disorder. SMART Recovery was co-founded by Tom Horvath, Ph.D., as a self-strengthening substitute for the 12-step method. The primary difference between SMART and AA is the focus of control. That is, whether an individual’s recovery must be guided from within or by an external or higher power.
Like AA, Smart is a support program for people with substance abuse and behavioral disorders to engage with one another. It teaches participants how to reign in (and ultimately have better control over) their damaging behavior by focusing on underlying thoughts and feelings. Participants in SMART learn about management tools to control their cravings for the long term.
SMART continuously refreshes its strategies based on new scientific data in substance abuse disorder recovery. Updates are intended to provide more efficient strategies based on extensive research.
Although the overall focus of SMART is completely different from all 12-step models, the environmental dynamic and camaraderie are elements the two share.
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Mutual Support and Assistance
What makes SMART so cutting-edge is the fact that it takes solid, evidence-backed behavioral strategies and formulates them into a comprehensive, followable plan of action with mutual support and assistance from peers.
Essentially, you could consider SMART a program with an inpatient rehab program curriculum and recovery plan with an entire body of comrades cheering your success. Participants are able to engage one another on strategies and participate in activities and learning sessions to promote progress.
This is a portion of what made 12-step recovery programs such a breakthrough success decades ago. Being surrounded by individuals rallying for the same win provides an atmosphere of accountability that promotes successful and long-term recovery.
What are the Stages of SMART Recovery?
In Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous, participants follow the “steps of recovery.” The entire program is outlined in 12 steps that lead users into recovery by putting their faith in the hands of a higher power.
However, SMART uses a model where users follow what is known as the stages of change. These stages outline specific periods in the addiction and recovery process that are backed by scientific data that describes certain feelings and trains of thought regarding substance abuse.
The following are SMART’s Stages of Change:
- Precontemplation: During this stage, most individuals are not aware of the presence of a problem with substance abuse.
- Contemplation: Participants evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of substance abuse by filling out a cost/benefit analysis sheet.
- Determination/Preparation: Participants pursue avenues for personal change and complete a Change Plan Worksheet.
- Action: Participants seek new ways to handle their behavior regarding substance abuse. This includes self-help and the support of help groups.
- Maintenance: After a few months, the participant’s behavior changes, and they seek to maintain their gains.
- Graduation/Exit: Once a participant has achieved a long period of change, along with sustainable improvement in the situation that led them to seek assistance, they may choose to move on and graduate from SMART Recovery.
The way meetings are crafted is similar to other group recovery programs, emphasizing digital resources and remote options.