Introduction to SMART Recovery – Live a Balanced Life!

SMART Recovery run programmes that support people to self manage their recovery journey from any type of addictive or unhelpful behaviour.

In a fast-paced modern world full of stresses and pressure we can all find ourselves using ways to cope that are not good for us. These habits creep in and sometimes we need help to reduce or stop them when we recognise that they’re causing more harm than good. UK SMART Recovery is here to help.

SMART (Self-Management and Recovery Training) is a secular self-help programme that provides training and practical techniques for people who want to change problematic behaviour, sometimes known as “bad habits”, including over-dependence on alcohol, drugs (illicit and prescribed), cigarettes/vapes, gambling, food, shopping, internet, and any others. Our online and in-person peer led mutual-aid meetings are guided by trained facilitators, during which participants discover how to help themselves and each other through using a variety of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and motivational tools and techniques. Confidentiality and anonymity are maintained at all times.

Our 4-point programme gives you the skills to navigate:

1. Building and Maintaining Motivation

2. Coping with Urges

3. Managing Thoughts, Feelings and Behaviours

4. Living a Balanced Life.

Once the tools within the programme are learnt, they provide valuable life-long skills which extend far beyond the initial problem. SMART advocates personal choice, and by engaging with the programme individuals are empowered to achieve and maintain a healthy, positive, and balanced lifestyle. Through our programme you discover the power to make better choices when under stress.

In addition to our SMART Recovery programme, we also have our SMART Family & Friends programme, which adapts the 4 points to better suit the needs of loved ones of people experiencing addictive behaviours. Rather than focusing on their loved one’s problems and behaviours, the SMART Family & Friends programme invites participants to concentrate on their own wellbeing and goals, which they may have been neglecting for some time. The programme explores ways participants can look after themselves better, even in challenging and stressful circumstances, and supports them to establish healthier relationships with their loved one. By participating in SMART Family & Friends meetings, individuals find a safe, supportive space where they can share similar experiences, lessening feelings of isolation and instilling a sense of hope for a more balanced outcome.

About our organisation:

Self-Help Addiction Recovery | UK Smart Recovery
UK SMART Recovery (UKSR) is a registered charity which promotes choice in recovery through a national network of peer led mutual-aid meetings and online training programmes with comprehensive teaching materials and manuals. Our 4-point programme teaches rational, easy to learn and self-empowering skills to help participants reduce the harms they might be experiencing from any addictive behaviour, and to develop a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. If you or someone you know would benefit from our support, please contact us. We understand how sensitive this topic is, so we don’t ask you to register, and you self-refer confidentially. We don’t keep any of your details, so your anonymity is maintained. Our service is free at the point of care, but we gratefully accept donations.

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