Online courses to help South West residents with addiction

Those struggling with addiction will not be left alone during COVID-19 restrictions, with a community group recently making addiction recovery sessions available online.

South West Community Alcohol and Drug Service is hosting a free online addiction support service using Self-Management Recovery Training to support those in need during a challenging time.

SWCADS alcohol and other drug counsellor Emma Jones, pictured, said the team supported people with all kinds of addictions.

“SMART Recovery meetings are open to people battling any type of addictive behaviour, but we predominantly see those people who are trying to make changes to their alcohol or other drug use,” Ms Jones said.

SWCADS has facilitated SMART sessions for the past three years, but the move online will enable the service to continue to provide support to those at home.

The main thing I hope participants will take away from these meetings is a feeling of safety, security and most importantly, connection.

“Connection is the opposite to addiction.

“Our aim is to help people set small incremental goals from week-to-week which, added together, help them make significant changes to their lifestyle.”

The SMART Recovery program helps participants to address problematic behaviours using a variety of motivational tools and cognitive behaviour therapy.

The meetings are led by trained staff and will be held once a week via Zoom.

“If you would like support for your own, or a loved ones, alcohol or other drug use contact the South West Community Alcohol and Drug Service on 97 219256 or the Alcohol and Drug Support Line on 1800 198 024,” Ms Jones said.