Triggers & Cravings
What is a trigger?
True or False: Avoiding all emotions is a healthy coping skill.
False- healthy coping means facing emotions safely, not avoiding them.
Name three signs of anxiety.
Explain the concept of "pink cloud" in early recovery.
A temporary period of euphoria and overconfidence after initial sobriety, which may set up vulnerability to relapse.
What is the "Big Book" and why is it significant?
Alcoholics Anonymous (founded in 1939), is the foundational text outlining AA's principles and recovery stories.
Name three triggers that are less obvious than others.
Music, smells, celebrations/holidays, paydays, social media, etc..
How can talking to someone you trust act as a coping skill?
relieves stress, provides support, and helps gain perspective
What is mindfulness?
The practice of paying attention to the present moment on purpose, being aware, with curiosity and without judgment. Noticing thoughts, feelings, and body sensations. Can help manage stress and anxiety
What is the main purpose of group therapy in recovery?
To share experiences, learn from peers, gain support, and practice new skills.
Name a celebrity who has publicly shared their recovery journey.
Robert Downey Jr., Eminem, Demi Lovato, Elton John, Russell Brand, Eric Clapton, Steve Tyler, Macklemore, among many others
You're at a birthday party, and someone offers you a drink. What are two healthy ways you can respond?
"No thanks, I don't drink anymore", leaving the situation, changing the topic
Why is it important to have more than one coping skill?
Different situations require different tools; having options prevents relapse when one strategy doesn't work.
How can sleep affect recovery?
Physical healing, emotional stability, cognitive functioning, cravings, motivation and energy
What is a relapse prevention plan?
A personalized, written strategy that helps someone in recovery recognize risks and take action to avoid returning to a substance. It usually includes: triggers, warning signs, coping skills, support systems, and emergency steps
What spiritual fellowship inspired the early principles of AA and the 12 Steps?
The Oxford Group.
Why is it important to identify early warning signs of cravings? Give one example.
Early recognition prevents escalation. Examples: irritability, obsessive thinking, isolating
How can creating a daily routine act as a coping skill in recovery?
Structure reduces boredom, lowers anxiety, and provides accountability, decreasing relapse risk.
Explain the connection between mental health and substance use (co-occurring disorders).
using substances to self-medicate symptoms of anxiety, depression, or trauma, but this worsens mental health over time. Both affect the brain’s reward and stress systems, creating a cycle where mental health symptoms increase substance use, and substance use intensifies mental health struggles.
What is the third step?
"Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.”
This comedian, known for The Hangover films, has shared openly about quitting alcohol to save his career and health.
Bradley Cooper.
What role does the environment play in our cravings?
Environments can be associated with use and intensify cravings. Changing routines and social circles reduces the risk.
What is the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique?
5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste.
Explain how trauma can complicate recovery.
Trauma triggers may overlap with substance use urges; unresolved trauma can fuel relapse.
What does the phrase “progress, not perfection” mean in recovery?
That small, consistent steps forward are more important than never making mistakes.
What was the original name for Alcoholics Anonymous before “AA” became official?
The “Alcoholic Foundation.”