Coping Skills
Feelings and Emotions
Relapse Prevention
Support Systems
Recovery Pop Culture
100

What is a coping skill? Give one example.

A coping skill is a healthy way to deal with stress or difficult emotions. Example: taking a walk.

100

What is one reason it's important to talk about your feelings in recovery?

Bottling up emotions can lead to relapse; talking helps release stress and gain support.

100

What is a trigger? Give one example.

A trigger is anything that causes a craving or thought of using. Example: walking by a bar.

100

Why is it helpful to have a support system in early recovery?

They provide encouragement, accountability, and understanding.

100

Name one celebrity who has spoken openly about being in recovery.

Robert Downey Jr., Demi Lovato, Eminem, or Jamie Lee Curtis.

200

Name one healthy way to deal with stress instead of using.

Talking to a friend, exercising, or journaling. Etc

200

What emotion is often hidden underneath anger?

Hurt, fear, or sadness.

200

What is a craving? How long do they usually last?

A strong urge to use. They often last 15–30 minutes, an hour  but can feel longer.

200

What is a sponsor? What do they help with?

A sponsor is a mentor in recovery who offers guidance, shares experience, and supports your steps.

200

What does the saying “One day at a time” mean?

Focus on staying sober just for today — take it step by step instead of worrying about forever.

300

How can deep breathing or mindfulness help during cravings?

They help calm the nervous system and bring attention away from urges, reducing the intensity of cravings.

300

How can journaling help with emotions in early recovery?

It helps you process feelings, notice patterns, and gain self-awareness.

300

Name 2 personal warning signs that you might be headed for relapse.

Isolating from support, romanticizing past use.

300

Name one benefit of attending a recovery meeting.

Feeling less alone; hearing relatable stories; staying accountable.

300

In the movie 28 Days, what does Sandra Bullock’s character go to treatment for?

Alcohol addiction.

400

What are two activities you can do when you’re feeling overwhelmed?

Go outside for fresh air and movement; write in a journal; listen to calming music.

400

What’s one sign you may be avoiding your emotions instead of processing them?

Numbing out with TV, food, or isolating; feeling emotionally shut down.



400

What are the HALT triggers? Why are they important?

Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired - these states can increase vulnerability to relapse.

400

What should you do if you're having a hard time asking for help?

Remind yourself it's a strength, not a weakness - and take one small step, like texting someone.

400

Finish this quote: “Progress, not ______.”

Perfection.

500

Imagine someone new to recovery asks you what coping skills are most important. What 3 would you recommend and why?

Mindfulness/deep breathing, physical activity, reaching out for support.

500

Share a healthy way to deal with sadness or loneliness in recovery.

Reaching out to a friend, going to a meeting, or engaging in a creative hobby.

500

Describe a plan or strategy you can use when faced with a strong urge to use.

Use the 5-minute rule, call a support person, practice grounding, or leave the situation.

500

Share how someone in your support network has helped you stay on track.



[Any Personal response]

500

Name a song, movie, or quote that reminds you of recovery or fresh starts — and why.

[Any Personal Response]

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