We have 3 meetings in South Africa per week (open to anyone worldwide over the age of 18), as well as almost hourly meetings across the world. SMART Meetings are 60 - 90 minutes long. We are very flexible with the flow of the meetings, as we allow participants to take it in the direction that they need it to. If there is a common theme, we will discuss SMART tools to help with the topic brought up. Meetings generally follow this pattern:
1. Check In's - each person gets a turn to introduce themselves to the group, let us know what brings you to SMART, and any particular challenges or successes you have had over the past week. At SMART Recovery, we do not dwell on the past but focus on the present and future, so a history of your addiction is not needed.
If you do not wish to check in, you are welcome to just listen.
2. SMART Tool or Recovery Related Topic - We will present how to use a SMART tool, or show some other recovery related material which can include a video, game, presentation or other.
3. Discussion - we love cross talk at SMART Recovery and allow for discussion time for members to comment, give input or suggestions, or say what has worked for them. We use "I" statements and do not tell others what they should do, but rather what worked for you.
4. Check Out - time permitting, we do a short check out for any last thoughts and something you took from the meeting.
Questions are welcome at any time during the meeting, simply raise your hand.
Participation is helpful to your recovery, but is always optional. Cameras are also optional.