SMART recovery meetings online offer the opportunity to communicate with others who understand what you’re going through. They also allow you to continue your recovery no matter where you are. These meetings use tools and techniques for self-empowerment and focus on scientific principles rather than spirituality.
The evaluation study found that SMART was able to scale up online meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 126 new groups created. Most participants that had attended in-person meetings pre-pandemic felt online meetings were about the same or better.
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Having a strong support system
When it comes to smart recovery online meetings, having a strong support system is essential. These support systems can help you through any tough times and make sure that you don’t relapse. They can also give you encouragement when you are struggling and remind you that you are not alone. They can also help you stay sober by encouraging you to keep going.
SMART Recovery is an international community of mutual-support groups for people seeking science-based, self-empowered addiction recovery. The group offers free online meetings through Zoom videoconferencing, 24×7 chat rooms and an online message board. Meetings last for 90 minutes and are led by trained facilitators. The SMART program uses tools and concepts to empower people who struggle with drug or alcohol abuse, or behavioural addictions such as gambling or eating disorders.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, SMART Recovery rapidly scaled up the number of online meetings. This upscaling allowed SMART to offer more support to more people. Survey results suggest that online SMART meetings were well-received by participants, and there was a demand for more.
Being able to continue your recovery no matter where you are
If you’re struggling with addiction, you can find a recovery group that fits your schedule. SMART (Self-Management and Recovery Training) is a global program that facilitates free in-person support groups as well as online meetings. Using SMART concepts and tools can help you overcome substance use disorder. In addition, you can learn how to communicate better with your family members and develop a more balanced life.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, most face-to-face SMART Recovery meetings were required to close globally due to infection control restrictions, including “social distancing.” To ensure people still had access to mutual support, SMART International rapidly scaled up the number of online groups.
This evaluation study found that SMART Recovery Australia successfully started 126 new online groups during the COVID-19 pandemic and that most meeting attendees felt these online meetings were beneficial to their recovery. Future studies with rigorous methods, such as a randomized control trial, are needed to confirm these findings.
Having access to tools and resources
The SMART Recovery program uses evidence-based tools to help people overcome addictions to drugs, alcohol, gambling and other substances. The group’s meeting rooms are open to the public, and there is no fee to attend a meeting (although a hat is passed for donations). Participants learn about the four-point program and discuss their addictions with peers in a supportive environment.
SMART has an extensive library of online resources, including videos, podcasts, and the Message Board. These resources are based on cognitive behavioural therapy and rational emotive behavioural therapy. During meetings, participants learn and practice the use of tools such as the Cost/Benefit Analysis Worksheet and Change Plan Worksheet.
The results of this study show that SMART’s online meeting offerings during the COVID-19 pandemic were helpful to many. However, more research is needed to examine whether these meetings promote improved substance use and other recovery outcomes. Future research should be conducted using more rigorous methods, such as a randomized control trial.
Having a balanced life
Having a balanced life is vital for your health and wellbeing. It can help you manage stress levels, boost productivity, and achieve success. If you struggle with finding a balance in your life, smart recovery online meetings can be a great support system. These meetings can be conducted from the comfort of your home and are free to attend.
SMART is an abstinence-based recovery program that differs from AA and other 12-step programs in its approach to addiction treatment. While SMART does not believe that addiction is a disease, it acknowledges that some people may be predisposed to addictive behaviours. It also focuses on self-empowering tools to promote healthy lifestyles and change behavior.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, 126 new online SMART Recovery groups were established. Participants who completed a survey reported that the online meetings were welcoming and well-facilitated. This suggests that SMART’s response to the pandemic was beneficial for those who participated. However, more research is needed to determine whether online meetings are as effective as in-person meetings.