Recovery Slang
What does the phrase "one day at a time" mean in recovery?
Focusing on staying sober today rather than worrying about forever.
Myth or Fact: Addiction is simply a lack of willpower.
: Myth. Addiction is a treatable health condition involving brain function, behavior, and other factors.
You're feeling overwhelmed, so you take slow, controlled breaths to calm yourself. What coping skill are you using?
Deep breathing.
An old friend texts you asking if you want to hang out, but you know they still use drugs. What is a healthy response?
Set a boundary, decline the invitation, and choose a safer activity.
What rapper is known for the recovery-themed albums Relapse and Recovery?
Who is Eminem?
What does "white-knuckling it" mean?
Trying to stay sober through willpower alone without using healthy coping skills or support.
Myth or Fact: You can overdose on fentanyl the very first time you use it.
Fact. Even a single exposure through use can cause a fatal overdose.
You write down your feelings instead of acting impulsively. What coping skill is this?
Journaling.
You're having a bad day and thinking, "One drink won't hurt." What recovery tool could help?
Play the tape forward and contact a support person.
Which singer released the song "Sober" in 2018, openly discussing their struggles with addiction?
Who is Demi Lovato?
What does "playing the tape forward" mean?
Thinking through the likely consequences of using instead of focusing only on the immediate feeling.
Myth or Fact: Once someone completes treatment, they no longer need recovery support.
Myth. Ongoing support and continuing care can help maintain recovery.
You notice five things you can see, four you can feel, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. What technique is this?
The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique.
You receive your first paycheck after treatment and feel tempted to spend it impulsively. What's a responsible first step?
Make a budget and prioritize essential expenses.
What television series features Walter White, a chemistry teacher who begins manufacturing methamphetamine?
What is Breaking Bad?
What does "pink cloud" refer to in early recovery?
A period of excitement, optimism, or euphoria that some people experience when newly sober.
Myth or Fact: Having a craving means you're about to relapse.
Myth. Cravings are common and do not automatically lead to substance use.
You recognize a negative thought and challenge it by looking for evidence and a more balanced perspective. What skill are you practicing?
Cognitive restructuring or reframing.
You get into an argument with someone at sober living and feel like leaving treatment. What's a healthier response?
Take time to regulate your emotions, speak with staff, and avoid making an impulsive decision.
Which actor known for playing Iron Man has publicly discussed his history of addiction and recovery?
Who is Robert Downey Jr.?
What does "dry drunk" mean in traditional recovery slang?
Someone who has stopped drinking but continues unhealthy behaviors or thinking patterns associated with addiction.
Myth or Fact: Alcohol withdrawal can sometimes be life-threatening. A: Fact. Severe alcohol withdrawal can cause seizures or delirium tremens and requires medical attention.
Fact. Severe alcohol withdrawal can cause seizures or delirium tremens and requires medical attention.
You experience an intense craving but observe it without acting, allowing it to rise and eventually decrease. What is this called?
Urge surfing.
You've been sober for six months but stop attending meetings, isolate yourself, and begin romanticizing past substance use. What might these behaviors indicate?
Relapse warning signs that should be addressed with additional support.
What 2018 film starring Timothée Chalamet and Steve Carell portrays a family's experience with methamphetamine addiction?
What is Beautiful Boy?