Addiction touches nearly everyone’s lives.
Whether it’s addiction to alcohol or other substance abuse; gambling; overeating; or anything else that prompts repeated, harmful, and uncontrollable behavior, the individual and interpersonal consequences can be enormous.
The compulsive need to seek and use a substance or engage in a behavioral addiction often comes at the expense of one’s emotional and psychological well-being. Chronic substance abuse can lead to neurological changes that exacerbate mood disorders, anxiety, and paranoia. Moreover, the cyclical nature of addiction—wherein individuals consume to escape emotional pain, only to face intensified pain when the effects wane—can trap them in a downward spiral of worsening mental health symptoms. The guilt, shame, and stigma associated with addiction further compound emotional distress. Over time, the coexistence of addiction and mental health disorders, often termed dual diagnosis or comorbidity, can make both conditions more challenging to treat. This interconnectedness underscores the importance of holistic treatment approaches that address both addiction and its associated mental health implications.
It’s clear that some sort of addiction recovery approach is needed, but with so many options available, it can be hard to choose the best one.
One approach, backed by rigorous scientific evidence and countless testimonials, is SMART (Self-Management And Recovery Training) Recovery. This non-profit organization aims to empower individuals to overcome their addictive behaviors through free mutual-support groups and self-led online programs. It’s an alternative to traditional 12-step programs and emphasizes personal empowerment and a scientific foundation for recovery.
With both in-person and online SMART recovery meeting options, you can connect with a support group of people who, like you, are motivated to get a handle on their addictive behaviors and create lasting change.
SMART uses a sensible 4-Point Program with practical tools to empower self-directed behavioral change:
- Building and maintaining the motivation to change
- Coping with urges to use
- Managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in an effective way without addictive behaviors
- Living a balanced, positive, and healthy life
You can learn more about the SMART recovery 4-point program and explore the online community, including their FAQs and start guide, to get a better sense of whether this is the right approach for you.
If you, your family members, your friends, or someone else needs help with a harmful habit or addiction, the SMART Recovery program has the resources to help. For more information, fill out this contact form or call (440) 951-5357. In addition, the Addiction Services team at Diversus Health can help with treatment. Call or walk in with same day access in Colorado Springs.