SMART recovery

• Reach:

  National

• Focus area:

  Mainstream with Indigenous content

• Status:

  Current

• Evaluated:

  No

Overview

SMART (Self management and recovery training) recovery Australia is a community based, non-profit charity, set up to promote and support the provision of the SMART recovery program in the community. SMART recovery offers face-to-face and online counselling groups to people in the community who want and need help managing and overcoming their addictive behaviours and associated problems. SMART recovery is based on the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). The group helps people to understand, manage and change their irrational thoughts and actions. The SMART recovery program comprises of 4 key points:

1. building and maintaining motivation
2. coping with urges
3. problem solving
4. lifestyle balance.
   

SMART recovery offers an alternative to the 12-step programs (such as Alcoholics Anonymous) in the community. The emphasis is on self management and learning practical skills in order to gain and maintain abstinence. The program can be adapted to fit specific populations, and SMART recovery Australia aims to work with more Indigenous populations to adapt the program accordingly. The program is run in all correctional facilities in New South Wales and Tasmania. Rekindling the Spirit - an Aboriginal community organisation in Lismore - also run the SMART recovery program.

SMART recovery has also launched a new program for families and carers - the Be SMART program has been adapted from SMART recovery for family and carers of individuals struggling with substance use. It uses similar principles to those of SMART recovery, such giving participants practical coping tools and encouraging self-management. Be SMART has also been designed to encourage families and carers to focus on themselves and find a greater sense of fulfilment in their own lives. Over eight weeks the program explores ways that participants can look after themselves better, even in difficult and stressful circumstances, and establish a healthier relationship with the other person. It also covers topics such as: making changes in thinking and responses, communication, developing support networks, keeping safe, problem solving and goal-setting.

Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet abstract

Contacts

SMART Recovery Australia
Ph: (02) 9373 5100
Email: smartrecovery@srau.org.au

Related publications

Getting SMART: moderate intensity substance abuse program and SMART Recovery [information for offenders and their families] (2009)

Queensland Corrective Services

• Links
• View publication: Getting smart [information for offenders and their families] (PDF - 120.0 KB)
• View information: Offenders programs factsheets
• View website: Queensland Corrective Services

Links

• View contact details: SMART Recovery Australia
• View website: SMART Recovery Australia