What Are the Different Types of Support Groups For Addiction?
What is the key to long-term recovery?
For some people, it is successfully completing an evidence-based drug rehab program. For others, it is the acquisition of healthy life and coping skills. In reality, the key to long-term recovery is the help and encouragement found in an addiction support group. Recovery support groups are the backbone of lasting sobriety. Addiction recovery groups provide hope, empowerment, and the motivation needed to stay on the path to health and happiness.
This article will outline the different types of support groups for addiction. You will also learn what a support group is and its benefits in helping you get and stay sober. If you are in the Kansas City area and need help finding group therapy for addiction, call Arista Recovery today. Our top-tier rehab facility features evidence-based substance abuse and mental health treatment that is the best in class. Call us today to learn more about our Midwest drug rehab center.
What is an Addiction Support Group?
In simple terms, an addiction support group allows people with similar experiences with addiction to share their stories in a safe and non-judgmental environment. These essential groups focus on encouraging people who are in recovery to take accountability for their actions. The peers within recovery support groups provide direction and motivation for members to continue working on their individual recovery programs. Recovery support groups for addiction are an essential part of an overall recovery plan during and after formal treatment has ended and people transition back into their daily lives.
What Are the Different Types of Support Groups For Addiction?
Many people early in recovery may be surprised there are different types of support groups for addiction. Like recovery itself, support groups aren’t one size fits all. Each recovering addict is unique, and they need to find a support group that best fits their personality and overall goals in recovery. The following are a few examples of the different types of support groups for addiction:
12-Step Groups
12-step support groups are the most well-known and recognized within the recovery community. Examples of these include Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Cocaine Anonymous (CA). The guiding principle of 12-Step groups is that addiction is a disease that can be controlled through understanding of a “Higher Power” and working a set of “steps” the help people accept, address, and overcome their addiction.
SMART Recovery
Another type of support group for addicts is SMART Recovery. SMART Recovery is an evidence-based support group that believes that people can transform themselves and not a higher power as believed in a 12-step program. SMART Recovery is unique in the fact it utilizes therapies such as CBT to help people build and maintain motivation, cope with urges, manage thoughts and behaviors, and move towards living a healthy and balanced life. Also, people have the option of receiving peer support online through the SMART Recovery program.
Rational Recovery
Rational Recovery (RR) in a unique support group that believes that addictive behaviors are voluntary and not because of disease or spiritual failing. Rational Recovery offers no meetings but provides education on managing the thoughts and triggers that lead to substance use through videos, forums, and other literature and resources.
What Are the Benefits of Support Groups in Recovery?
People who go to support groups get tremendous benefits that enrich and grow their recovery. First and foremost, support groups provide people with a place where they can connect with others in recovery. With this peer support, people don’t feel alone in their struggles and receive support, feedback, and resources that help them stay focused in recovery. Second, support groups provide emotional support and compassion when times get tough. Third, addiction recovery groups allow people to hear how others overcome obstacles in recovery. As a result, people can gain new skills in dealing with their own issues.
Additional benefits of recovery support groups include:
- Relapse prevention
- Creates a strong support network of sober friendships
- Reminders of the consequences of substance abuse
- Gives a safe space to try new coping skills
Arista Recovery Can Help You Find Support Groups in Kansas City
Are you newly sober and seeking to grow your recovery? As one of the Midwest’s leading drug rehabs, Arista Recovery will help you find the support you need to stay on the path of recovery. We offer a variety of outpatient programs that are evidence-based and are perfect for those seeking to stay sober upon completing treatment. Our experienced treatment staff will ensure that you receive the support and tools you need to stay motivated and inspired in your newfound sobriety.
Call us toll-free today and start a new and exciting chapter in your life.
