Finding Hope and Support for Loved Ones Struggling with Addiction: SMART Recovery Family & Friends
Are you facing the heart-wrenching challenge of helping a loved one battle drug addiction, alcohol abuse, or other addictive behaviors? You’re not alone in this struggle, and there is a powerful resource that can provide you with guidance, support, and a path toward recovery. SMART Recovery Family & Friends is a beacon of hope for those who are affected by the substance abuse or addiction of a family member or friend.
Read on as we’ll delve into what SMART Recovery Family & Friends is, how it differs from other support systems, and the various ways in which you can access help and support.
Understanding SMART Recovery Family & Friends
SMART Recovery Family & Friends is a science-based, secular alternative to traditional support groups like Al-Anon and the Johnson Intervention. It offers a fresh approach to helping individuals cope with and assist loved ones in their journey toward recovery. The program is rooted in the principles and tools of SMART Recovery, a well-established and effective approach to addiction treatment. SMART stands for Self-Management and Recovery Training, and it focuses on empowering individuals to take control of their lives and overcome addiction.
What Makes SMART Recovery Family & Friends Unique?
Science-Based Approach: SMART Recovery Family & Friends is grounded in evidence-based practices, making it a reliable and proven resource for those dealing with addiction-related challenges. It incorporates techniques from CRAFT (Community Reinforcement Approach & Family Training), developed by Dr. Robert Meyers, which have been featured on the popular HBO Addiction series.
Secular Perspective: Unlike many traditional support groups, SMART Recovery is secular and open to individuals of all faiths or those who do not practice any religion. This inclusive approach ensures that the program is accessible and welcoming to a broad spectrum of people.
Empowerment and Self-Management: SMART Recovery Family & Friends places a strong emphasis on self-empowerment and self-management. Instead of relying solely on the addict to seek help, the program helps family and friends learn how to encourage their loved one to make healthier choices.
Getting Help and Support
SMART Recovery Family & Friends provides several ways for you to access the support and resources you need:
Attend Face-to-Face Meetings: Participating in face-to-face meetings can provide you with a sense of community and direct interaction with others who are facing similar challenges. To find a meeting near you, you can visit the SMART NYC Family & Friends Facebook page and check their calendar for details on upcoming sessions.
SMART Online: If you’re unable to attend in-person meetings or prefer the convenience of online resources, SMART Recovery offers a wealth of information and support through their official website. You can explore articles, tools, and online meetings that can assist you in understanding addiction and how to approach it.
National SMART Recovery Website: SMART’s national website is an excellent resource for anyone seeking information on addiction and how to help loved ones. You can find additional details on SMART Recovery Family & Friends, including how to connect with local groups or join online meetings.
In Conclusion
Watching a loved one battle addiction can be a painful and challenging experience, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. SMART Recovery Family & Friends offers a science-based, secular, and empowering approach to supporting those affected by addiction.
Through face-to-face meetings, online resources, and the national SMART Recovery website, you can find the help, guidance, and community you need to navigate this difficult journey. By gaining a better understanding of addiction and learning how to encourage healthier choices, you can play a pivotal role in your loved one’s recovery.
Don’t let addiction hold your family and friends hostage; explore the possibilities of SMART Recovery Family & Friends and take the first step towards a brighter, addiction-free future.
Additional Resources
SMART Recovery Family & Friends is a science-based, secular alternative to Al-Anon and Johnson Intervention. Our method is based on the tools of SMART Recovery and CRAFT (Community Reinforcement Approach & Family Training) developed by Dr. Robert Meyers and featured on the popular HBO Addiction series.
You can get help in the following ways:
- Attend face-to-face meetings. For more information, visit the SMART NYC Family & Friends Facebook page and our calendar
- Receive support through SMART Online and SMART’s national website. Click here for more information