Coping Skills
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.
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.
What is a trigger? Give one example.
A trigger is anything that causes a craving or thought of using. Example: walking by a bar.
Why is it helpful to have a support system in early recovery?
They provide encouragement, accountability, and understanding.
Name one celebrity who has spoken openly about being in recovery.
Robert Downey Jr., Demi Lovato, Eminem, or Jamie Lee Curtis.
Name one healthy way to deal with stress instead of using.
Talking to a friend, exercising, or journaling. Etc
What emotion is often hidden underneath anger?
Hurt, fear, or sadness.
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.
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.
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.
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.
How can journaling help with emotions in early recovery?
It helps you process feelings, notice patterns, and gain self-awareness.
Name 2 personal warning signs that you might be headed for relapse.
Isolating from support, romanticizing past use.
Name one benefit of attending a recovery meeting.
Feeling less alone; hearing relatable stories; staying accountable.
In the movie 28 Days, what does Sandra Bullock’s character go to treatment for?
Alcohol addiction.
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.
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.
What are the HALT triggers? Why are they important?
Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired - these states can increase vulnerability to relapse.
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.
Finish this quote: “Progress, not ______.”
Perfection.
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.
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.
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.
Share how someone in your support network has helped you stay on track.
[Any Personal response]
Name a song, movie, or quote that reminds you of recovery or fresh starts — and why.
[Any Personal Response]