Not every type of recovery program works for every patient. Therefore, some rehab centers have multiple alternatives for standard 12-step programs. One type of program that many find effective is SMART recovery. For those who want help beyond 12-step programs, consider the benefits of this type of recovery.
What Is SMART Recovery?
What makes SMART recovery addiction treatment stand out is the way that it empowers patients. Individuals focus on four main points during the program. These points are:
- Finding and keeping motivation
- Handling urges and temptations
- Dealing with thoughts or emotions
- Learning to live in balance
These points allow individuals to find strength within themselves with support from others to recover from any addiction.
Finding motivation requires patients to examine the reasons they have for recovery. Over time, they may need to find other motivations or to review their existing reasons. Keeping motivation can help patients to make it through this type of treatment. Next, because recovery does not mean an end to mental or physical cravings for drugs or alcohol, patients in a SMART recovery program must learn healthy ways to handle situations and urges.
Coping with thoughts and emotions that could lead to substance use is another aspect of a SMART program. Some people may find additional therapy that helps them overcome negativity or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to assist in this stage of changing thinking.
Lastly, patients must learn to live balanced lives without addiction. For this step, patients may need to find new friend circles that will support their newfound sobriety. Others may have to choose healthier hobbies to replace their old behaviors during their addictions. SMART programs allow patients to follow the four points in any order they need and go back to points as required to reinforce them.
Who Benefits from a SMART Recovery Program?
Many people can benefit from a SMART program. In fact, some people who did not find a 12-step program appealing or helpful for their personal recovery journey could still find success with SMART recovery.
Individuals who want to feel more control over their recovery can benefit from the internal processes of a SMART program. However, participants are not alone in their recovery. They have people with the program helping them throughout their recovery efforts.
People who want a scientifically based program have principles derived from cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement therapy. These are commonly used psychotherapies used in other forms of addiction recovery programs and have shown success, reinforcing their effectiveness for SMART programs.
How Is a SMART Recover Program Different from a 12-Step Program?
While a 12-step addiction recovery program does work well for many patients, it is not ideal for everyone. SMART recovery does not follow the same guidelines or process as a 12-step program. There are distinct differences between the two that might make one a better option than the other for some patients. In a SMART program, the goal of complete recovery, self-empowerment, a lack of reference to a higher power, and four steps make this different from a 12-step recovery system.
Find a SMART Recovery Program in Indiana at Addiction Rehab Centers
Addiction does not have to continue. In fact, with the right type of treatment, it can successfully end. Even those who have tried recovery before can still end their addictions. The key to sobriety might be choosing an alternative form of treatment, such as a SMART recovery program. Contact us at Addiction Rehab Centers in Indianapolis, Indiana, at 844.910.0686 or by messaging our office through our site. We can help patients find out of SMART recovery as a good option for them or benefit from any of our other therapy options. Recovery could be in the future, but the first steps to reach it require asking for help.
