DylanS

I was just reading another thread where HAMS was mentioned. I followed the link and the tools (CBA, etc.) seem to be the same as SMART.

Are they the same?

Muns

I'm not familiar with smart but I have researched HAMS a lot and I have found good information there. For me at least. They tend to speak a method I identify with.

doggonecarl

HAMS is supposed to provide tools for safer drinking, reduced drinking, moderate drinking, or abstinence.

SMART recovery is an alternative to AA, but promotes abstinence, solely.

hypochondriac

I don't know but I am pretty sure HAMS just nicks tools from other abstinence type methods and tries to apply them to 'controlled/harm reduced' drinking. I once saw a description of AVRT on their site designed for use on 'alcohol free days'. Kinda funny I thought seeing as the idea behind AVRT only really works with abstinence. If you are constantly giving in to your AV how do you learn to recognise it?

ru12

Different strokes for different folks. Harm Reduction works for some. Others just need to stop the destructive behavior completely. Better is better.

MythOfSisyphus

I perused the website and while it's interesting I don't think it's for me. Limiting the harms of drinking got me nowhere; abstinence is the only approach that seems to help me at all.