Addiction Recovery Training Charity of the Year 2024 Winners!!

When I first came into prison, I knew I had a problem and wanted to do something about it. I was introduced to the SMART Inside Out Programme, which has taught me that I can think differently and change the way I react and behave. I now have everything I need to live a healthy, balanced lifestyle. I support others by passing on what I have learnt in recovery. I no longer feel judged because… I am not powerless, and I won’t be a product of society’s labelling.

After too many years of serious drinking and trying to combat the shakes every morning, some health scares and warnings from doctors, I went into a rehab facility. This was when I found SMART and almost immediately, things started to change. I found that many of my previous behaviours were born from my mostly irrational thoughts but thankfully, I now have the power to change things.

I attended SMART meetings every week and they helped me to feel empowered and finally believe I could recover. SMART gave me tools that I could use to develop better coping strategies. I liked that it was focused on the present, and the support I received from other group members helped to motivate me to move forwards.

The practical nature of the toolset helped me to understand and cope with my feelings.  I was encouraged to do the online SMART training which was a huge part of my recovery journey but also, a massive stepping stone for self-discovery of the real me. The support I have found within SMART has been invaluable.

Since attending SMART Recovery meetings, I have learnt about a range of tools that help me to manage my drinking. I have been able to explore the psychology surrounding my drinking habits, analyse when I’m susceptible to binge drinking, evaluate the consequences of such actions and set clear definable goals, which I actively work towards each week.