Recovery Basics
What DBT skill encourages stopping before reacting?
Stop Skill
True or False: Recovery is different for every person.
True
Discussion Question:
Why is it important not to compare your recovery journey to someone else's?
What is a trigger?
Something that increases the urge to use or engage in unhealthy behaviors.
Name one healthy coping skill.
Deep breathing, journaling, exercise, prayer, etc.
True or False: Addiction is considered a chronic condition that can affect the brain and behavior.
True
What skill helps us focus on the present moment?
Mindfulness
True or False: A relapse means treatment has failed.
False
Discussion Question:
What can someone learn from setbacks in recovery?
Name one healthy response to a trigger.
Call support, leave situation, coping skills, etc.
What is grounding?
Bringing attention back to the present moment.
True or False: Recovery is possible for people living with addiction.
True
What does Wise Mind combine?
Emotional Mind and Rational Mind
Recovery often involves making changes in what three areas of life?
Thoughts, behaviors, and relationships
Discussion Question:
Why can changing relationships sometimes be difficult in recovery?
True or False: Relapse usually happens suddenly with no warning signs.
False
Name all five senses used in the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique.
See, Touch, Hear, Smell, Taste
True or False: Stress can increase the risk of relapse.
True
What skill helps us accept reality as it is?
Radical Acceptance
True or False: Building healthy routines and habits can support long-term recovery.
True
Discussion Question:
What healthy routine has helped you manage stress, emotions, or recovery goals?
What is a relapse prevention plan?
A plan for managing triggers and warning signs.
Why is exercise beneficial for mental health?
Reduces stress and improves mood.
True or False: Cravings usually last forever if they are not acted on.
False
Discussion Question:
What are some healthy ways to cope with cravings when they occur?
What DBT skill encourages doing the opposite of what an unhealthy emotion wants us to do?
Opposite Action
True or False: Asking for help is considered a strength in recovery.
True
Discussion Question:
What makes it difficult for people to ask for help when they need it?
Name three relapse warning signs.
Isolation, stress, negative thinking, romanticizing use, etc.
You can use coping skills during a difficult day
False
Discussion Question:
Why is it important to practice coping skills before they are needed?
True or False: Developing healthy coping skills and support systems can reduce the risk of relapse.
True
Discussion Question:
What coping skills or supports have been most helpful in maintaining recovery?