Choosing Your Support Group for Recovery

Addiction recovery is different for everyone, but it’s surprising how many people are going through the same thing as you at the same time. Support groups are designed to bring people together in recovery to provide community and solidarity. It’s crucial to their long-term recovery.

There are many types of support groups available, such as the 12-step program, SMART groups, mutual support groups, and many more. JHRC is a recommended place to start your support group exploration since we have the treatments and expertise to help any struggling individual through their recovery.

What is a Support Group? 

Support groups are vitally important for addiction recovery and relapse prevention. While some people prefer to work with a therapist on a one-to-one basis, most people benefit from a shared space. Addiction recovery groups allow people to connect with others facing similar challenges.

A support group is a safe space for people facing addiction and mental health issues to share their experiences, connect with others, and build solidarity without judgment. A support group is usually facilitated by an experienced group leader who can curate sessions and provide value. 

Importance of Support Groups 

We all need people to connect with and relate to, especially when struggling through substance abuse recovery or when managing a mental health condition. It’s important to connect with people going through the same challenges for relevance and support. 

Support groups are a key part of the recovery process; they provide support and guidance for people as well as group solidarity. Support groups help with addiction recovery, but they also provide ongoing support to maintain health and well-being long-term and prevent any relapses.

Types of Support Groups 

When it comes to recovery support groups, there are several to choose from. Recovery support groups include 12-step programs, mutual support groups, celebrate recovery, and SMART recovery. The type of recovery support group you choose should be best suited to your personality and addiction needs. JHRC offers a range of recovery support groups for patients. 

Two of the most common recovery support groups used by addiction patients are the 12-step program and the SMART recovery program. Most people are already familiar with the 12-step program that uses guidelines to regain control over addictions and explore the underlying issues. The SMART program is a non-religious and non-spiritual approach to addiction recovery.  

12-Step Programs 

A 12-step program is a form of group recovery that has its roots in Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. Traditional 12-step programs are religious and spiritual and ask participants to put their faith in a higher power and admit their powerlessness over the intoxicant. The 12-step program has proven popular and effective for a large number of people. 

Whether you are recovering from alcohol or drug misuse, you can find a 12-step program that works at Jackson House Addiction Treatment & Recovery Centers. The 12-step program is a fast and effective way to reframe your mindset and connect with others in the same boat. A 12-step program also has a dedicated therapist you can check in with at any time. Contact JHRC to speak with a professional about a 12-step program.  

SMART Recovery 

Self-management and Recovery Training (SMART) is another option for support group recovery available through JHRC. SMART support groups are non-religious and non-spiritual; unlike the 12-step program, they might be more suitable for some people based on their worldviews and personalities. SMART groups focus on self-reliance and personal efforts for a recovery process. 

SMART support groups are run by trained facilitators and held once a week for 90 minutes at a time. SMART meetings always focus on the present and the future—there are no life stories to think about, only recovery and moving forward. Some of the therapies used to aid recovery are CBT and motivational interviewing. There is no pressure on new members to speak in groups.   

Finding a Support Group 

With so many support groups to choose from, how can you choose the right one for you? Choosing a support group that aligns with your beliefs, worldview, and recovery goals, is crucial to the success of your long-term recovery. It’s best to talk to a professional facilitator like JHRC. 

Talking to professional therapists, physicians, and individuals who have gone through similar forms of addiction and recovery will give you perspective and information on the type of support group that would suit you the best. Always research the support group type before committing.

Working With JHRC 

JHRC is a dedicated recovery center treating a wide range of addictions and mental health issues. Along with general addiction services, JHRC also offers dedicated services for particular demographics, such as veterans. JHRC uses trained therapists and physicians to aid recovery. 

Addiction is a powerful disease that requires determination and support for successful recovery. JHRC believes in community support as a pathway to successful recovery, which is why support groups are at the core of many treatments. The groups are available in the short and long term.

More Help at JHRC

No matter whether you are recovering from drug or alcohol dependence, you need the support of your therapists and peers; that’s why you need a support group. But it’s not as simple as that; you also need the right support group for your individual needs for it to work for your recovery. 

There’s no point in starting the 12-step program if you are non-religious and don’t believe in a higher power; it will simply hinder your progress instead. It’s a better idea to speak with a professional at JHRC about your situation and your support group needs moving forward.   

Key Takeaways: Group Recovery 

• A support group is a dedicated group of individuals that you can open up to in safety 
• Support groups are central to the recovery process in addiction treatment centers 
• Two of the most important support groups are the 12-step program and SMART groups 
• It’s very important to find the right support group for your belief and addiction needs 
• JHRC is an excellent place to find the right support group; we have many available