Triggers & Cravings
A person, place, emotion, situation, or memory that increases the urge to use substances.
What is a trigger in recovery?
Deep breathing, walking, journaling, music, or talking with someone supportive.
What are healthy coping skill for stress?
Name two emotions that may trigger substance use.
Examples: anger, sadness, shame, fear, excitement, or loneliness.
What is a relapse prevention plan?
A personalized plan identifying warning signs, triggers, coping strategies, and support resources.
Name one benefit of living substance-free.
Improved health, stability, relationships, finances, self-respect, or personal freedom.
Name two common relapse triggers.
Examples: stress, boredom, loneliness, conflict, old friends, or places associated with substance use.
What does HALT stand for?
Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired.
Why is identifying your emotions important in recovery?
It helps you understand your needs and choose healthy responses instead of reacting impulsively.
Name two warning signs that recovery may be at risk.
Isolation, skipping meetings, romanticizing substance use, dishonesty, or neglecting self-care
Why is having a daily routine helpful in recovery?
It provides structure, reduces unplanned idle time, and supports healthy habits.
What is the difference between a trigger and a craving?
A trigger is something that activates an urge; a craving is the desire or urge to use.
Name three alternatives to using substances when you feel overwhelmed.
Exercise, grounding, writing, talking with a counselor, meditation, or taking a safe break.
What is the difference between responding and reacting?
Reacting is often automatic or impulsive; responding involves pausing and choosing an action.
What is the difference between a lapse and a relapse?
A lapse is a brief return to use; relapse may describe a broader return to an established pattern. Either calls for support and reassessment.
What is one example of a healthy boundary?
Saying no to substance-related invitations or limiting contact with people who disrespect recovery goals.
Name three things you can do when a craving hits.
Delay acting, leave the situation, contact support, use grounding or breathing, or attend a meeting.
What is grounding, and when could you use it?
A technique that brings attention to the present moment, especially during anxiety, cravings, or emotional distress.
How can unresolved anger increase relapse risk?
It can intensify stress, impulsivity, conflict, and urges to escape uncomfortable feelings.
Why can overconfidence become dangerous in recovery?
It may lead someone to ignore warning signs, reduce support, or enter high-risk situations.
Name three types of people who can be part of a sober support system.
Counselors, sponsors, recovery peers, supportive family members, or trusted friends.
You run into an old friend who offers you drugs. What are three steps you can take?
Refuse clearly, leave immediately, and contact a sober support person
Demonstrate a healthy coping technique you can use in under 60 seconds.
Demonstrate paced breathing, 5-4-3-2-1 grounding, or another practical coping technique.
You feel rejected and want to isolate. Describe a healthier response.
Identify the feeling, challenge negative assumptions, reach out for support, and choose a healthy activity.
You stop attending meetings, begin isolating, and think you can use just once. What should you do?
Recognize warning signs, reconnect with supports, avoid high-risk situations, and update your prevention plan.
Describe one long-term recovery goal and three steps toward achieving it.
Example: stable housing—create a budget, identify housing options, and work with a case manager.