Research shows that 50% of Americans over the age of 12 have tried illicit drugs at least once. If drug or alcohol use negatively impacts your daily life, now may be the time to get help for your addiction. It’s important to understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all addiction recovery program. Many programs use a combination of treatment options, such as residential rehab followed by outpatient therapy and peer support groups. SMART Recovery is a global peer support group based on scientific foundations. This nonprofit organization hosts over 1,500 SMART meetings across North America.
Keep reading to learn more about SMART Recovery and how to use the hotline to find a meeting near you.
What Is SMART Recovery?
Self Management and Recovery Training, or SMART Recovery, is a secular peer support program for those struggling with any type of addiction, including drug or alcohol. Trained volunteers facilitate SMART Recovery meetings in person and online.
The program is based on:
- Research-based techniques. SMART Recovery uses a combination of techniques found in therapeutic treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), rational emotive behavior therapy (EBT), motivational enhancement therapy (MET) and motivational interviewing.
- Self-management. This recovery program is based on the belief that each person is responsible for their recovery and managing their behaviors.
- Person-centered programming. SMART Recovery looks at each person as an individual and encourages the elimination of negative labels, such as addict or alcoholic. This practice allows each participant to choose their own path, goals and values.
- Mutual peer support. SMART Recovery is based on the belief that those with lived experiences can provide support to those still working through their recovery.
How to Find a SMART Meeting in Your Area or Online
With over 1,500 SMART meetings across North America, there’s sure to be one near you. While many meetings are open to anyone, some are specific, such as groups for prison inmates, veterans or members of the LBGTQIA+ community. SMART meetings typically last about 60 to 90 minutes and allow participants to share and support one another.
In-person and online meetings are available. The easiest way to find the closest SMART meeting or one that best fits your needs is to contact the SMART Recovery hotline at (440) 951-5357. Trained operators are available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Who Can Call the SMART Recovery Hotline?
Anyone facing an addiction, including dependence on alcohol, prescription medicine or illicit drugs such as cocaine, heroin and inhalants, can call the hotline. Whether you’re just starting the path to recovery, still deep in your addiction or looking for aftercare solutions to maintain sobriety, the SMART Recovery hotline can help. If you’re not ready for SMART Recovery yet, hotline operators can help you find alternative treatment solutions.
What Are the Differences Between SMART and 12-Step Support?
SMART Recovery and 12-step programs both offer peer-supportive services in a community setting. However, there are some stark differences. Below is a look at several ways SMART Recovery is different from 12-step programs.
Scientific vs. Spiritual
SMART Recovery takes a scientific approach to recovery by using research-based tools and techniques. While it doesn’t discourage participants from maintaining or discovering their faith, its recovery program isn’t based on belief in a higher being, as is the case with 12-step programs.
Self-Reliance vs. Powerlessness
Twelve-step programs encourage participants to believe they are powerless to change and must rely on the power of a higher being. SMART Recovery takes the opposite approach by teaching participants to be self-reliant and take charge of their recovery.
4-Point System vs. 12-Step Program
SMART Recovery uses a four-point vs. 12-step program. These four points are:
- Build motivation to abstain from drugs and alcohol.
- Find ways to cope with your urges.
- Develop techniques for managing behaviors, thoughts and feelings.
- Create a well-balanced lifestyle.
Discussions vs. Testimonial
Twelve-step and SMART Recovery meetings are very different. While participants at 12-step meetings often share testimonials and life experiences, SMART meetings start with group discussions and provide educational and motivational resources.
Years vs. Lifetime
Many 12-step programs believe sobriety is a lifelong process, and members continue to go to meetings throughout their lifetime. SMART Recovery, on the other hand, incorporates the belief that you can master recovery, so you may only need to go to these meetings for several months or years.
Smart Recovery Hotline’s Role in Recovery
If you’re addicted to drugs or alcohol and not sure where to turn, the SMART Recovery hotline can be a great first step. Experienced specialists can further explain the SMART Recovery program and its principles to help you determine if this is the right place to start.
A call to the SMART Recovery hotline is also ideal for those creating an aftercare plan. Connecting with one or more online or in-person groups can play a critical role in your sobriety.
Additional SMART Recovery Resources
SMART Recovery offers numerous resources to help with your recovery, including:
- SMART handbook. The handbook offers a way for participants to track their success. It includes valuable worksheets, life skills lessons and recovery tools.
- Mobile app. The convenient mobile app makes it easy for participants to find meetings, obtain daily motivation and track their progress.
- Educational resources. SMART Recovery offers dozens of educational and motivational blogs, podcasts and videos for those working through recovery.
National Rehab Hotline
If you have a drug or alcohol addiction and aren’t sure where to turn for help, the National Rehab Hotline can help. Our trained crisis specialists can assess your current situation, offer treatment recommendations, help you find appropriate substance abuse care and assist with next-step planning. You don’t have to live with an addiction forever.
Take the first step today. Contact the National Rehab Hotline. Counselors are available 24-7, 365 days a year to answer your call.