There are many different models for recovery programs that people may not know about. SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) has been helping people get and stay sober since it was founded in 1992. However, many people are still unaware of the SMART Recovery program’s benefits. For more information about the SMART Recovery program at Woodland Recovery Center Mississippi, call us today at 662.222.2989.
How Does SMART Recovery Work?
Like many other peer-led recovery programs, SMART encourages participants to help support one another in their recovery program. It is a free program that strives to teach participants the techniques they need to end self-destructive habits and meet their wellness goals.
One of the most popular benefits of SMART Recovery program lessons is that they use scientifically validated methods to teach participants new and better coping skills. SMART teachings focus on the present instead of past traumas or experiences and help participants learn how to cope with stressful situations in a productive manner. Both long-term and short-term strategies are emphasized.
The 4-Point Program
SMART Recovery uses a simple 4-Point Program to help participants break free of addiction. The basis of SMART Recovery is the belief that participants are better prepared to make good decisions regarding addictive substances when they understand their behaviors. Many people choose the SMART Recovery program because SMART does not accept the idea of powerlessness in addiction.
Providing the tools to cope with anxiety, anger, guilt, and other emotions that might trigger the desire to engage in unhealthy behavior is the backbone of the 4-Point Program. The four points teach patients how to:
- Build and maintain motivation
- Cope with urges
- Manage thoughts, behaviors, and feelings
- Live a balanced, healthy life
The scientific approach of SMART helps participants set their own goals for recovery. In keeping with the scientific approach SMART is known for, addiction treatment goals are measurable, realistic, attainable, timely, and specific. Guidelines like these can relieve some of the anxiety related to recovery.
Instead of dividing a patient’s life into sober and not-sober cycles, SMART encourages participants to take the necessary steps to live a healthy, well-balanced life.
5 Major Benefits of Choosing the Smart Recovery Program
SMART Recovery program benefits can be directly tied to the 4-Point Program. In addition to the simplicity of SMART, the program benefits participants in the following ways:
1. Motivation
The first of the core principles in SMART is to build and maintain motivation. Learning to stay motivated through the ups and downs of recovery and maintaining a positive attitude even through life’s challenges is essential for a well-balanced life.
2. Reducing Triggers
SMART teaches people how to identify high-risk situations that can increase the likelihood of relapse. This refers to the places and people as well as the emotional triggers that might lead to the use of addictive substances. By recognizing risky situations sooner, SMART members can apply coping mechanisms before triggers become overwhelming.
3. Self-Management
Managing one’s own thoughts, behaviors, and feelings is a major part of every recovery program, and SMART is no exception. Thoughts, feelings, and behaviors feed one another. Another one of the benefits of SMART recovery programs is that they provide the tools that are needed to intervene anywhere during the cycle for better self-management.
4. Lead a Balanced Life
A more balanced life supports sobriety and vice versa. SMART emphasizes the importance of taking care of yourself on every level, including diet, exercise, sleep, mental wellness, and physical health.
5. Welcoming Support
SMART Recovery offers meetings online and in-person nationwide. There is no cost and no requirements for participation. SMART is a flexible program that encourages participants to set their own wellness goals and take charge of their recovery.
Learn More SMART Recovery Program Benefits at Woodland Recovery Center Mississippi
At Woodland Recovery Center Mississippi, we support our patients by offering a variety of programs to help them recover from addiction. To learn more about the treatment programs available at Woodland Recovery Center Mississippi, call us today at 662.222.2989.
