SMART Recovery for Veterans & First Responders

 

Click to download our VFR Information Flyer

CONTACT US:
To learn more about how SMART Recovery can support veterans, please contact [email protected] or send us a message using the form below.

Contact Us • Veterans Page

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Research documents show that an alarming number of veterans & first responders (VFR), suffer from addiction and/or mental health disorders, directly related to their service to our country and communities. Traumatic experiences can overwhelm coping skills, intrude on personal life, affect professional performance and cause mental health conditions. Many will self-medicate with alcohol and substances or engage in risky behaviors that can compound problems.  

Effects on Families

The families of VFRs are at risk as well. The absence of their loved one can create excessive strain, and the homecoming may bring powerful anxieties for everyone involved. First responders compile tremendous amounts of stress due to their professional responsibilities, that they may have a hard time balancing with everyday life. These family members may be suffering from acute or post-traumatic stress disorder, social/emotional detachment issues and any number of injuries received in the line of duty. Unhealthy coping behaviors and lack of healthy support can set off a downward spiral for all involved. 

Find a Veterans and First Responders Meeting

There is hope and practical, easy to apply tools. Veterans and First Responders who have begun to address their challenges are uniquely qualified to relate to those who have similar experiences.

In partnership with Veteran’s Administration (VA) hospitals and mental health professionals across the country, SMART meetings offer veterans and First Responders the help they need in a safe and supportive environment.

• Find Us at Online Meetings & Events: 
  • Sunday from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. ET
  • Tuesday from 7:00-8:30 p.m. ET
  • Wednesday from 7:30-9:00 p.m. ET (Women’s Only)
  • Thursday from 9:00-10:00 p.m. ET (Tool Time)
  • Friday from 8:30 – 10:00 p.m. ET
  • Meetings are free and password protected; registration is required
• Find Us in Your Community: To find meetings at your local VA, we encourage you to call your VA to request details. Or, if meetings are not yet held in your local VA, you can request SMART Recovery meetings to be added as a resource for you and your peers. Use this website to search for face-to-face meetings available near you.
• Find Us in the UK: https://smartwww.wpengine.com.uk/smart_veterans/

Let’s Support More Veterans and First Responders Together

We would love to help you start SMART Recovery meetings in your facility and or community. VA staff and mental health professionals are invited to join our training program and start SMART Recovery meetings. Training can be completed online or in-person. Fill out the form on this page to request more information on SMART Recovery for Veterans and First Responders.

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