Addiction Basics
What part of the brain is most affected by addiction?
The reward system (dopamine pathway)
Something that increases the urge to use?
What is a trigger
Name one healthy coping skill.
Deep breathing, walking, journaling, music, calling someone
Returning to substance use after a period of sobriety
a relapse
A process of improving health, wellness, and quality of life
recovery
True or False: Addiction is a moral failure.
False — addiction is a disease/condition
Name one type of trigger.
People, places, emotions, stress, or memories
What is grounding?
Bringing attention to the present moment
True or False: A slip always means total failure.
False
Name one type of support in recovery.
Counselor, peer, sponsor, family, group
What does tolerance mean?
Needing more of a substance to get the same effect
How long do most cravings last if you don’t act on them?
DAILY DOUBLE
around 7 minutes
What does HALT stand for?
Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired
What is one early warning sign of relapse?
Isolation, skipping meetings, cravings, negative thinking
: What does “one day at a time” mean?
Focus on staying sober today, not forever
Physical or mental symptoms when stopping substance use?
What is withdrawal
True or False: Cravings mean you are failing at recovery.
False
Why is sleep important in recovery?
It improves mood, judgment, and cravings
Why is honesty important in relapse prevention?
It helps prevent secrets and ask for support early
Why are routines helpful in recovery?
They reduce chaos and increase stability
What is one reason addiction is considered a chronic condition?
It can relapse and requires ongoing management
What emotion is most commonly linked to relapse?
Stress (also anger, loneliness, boredom—accept variations)
What is one coping skill you can use anywhere, anytime?
Breathing (or mindfulness)
What should someone do immediately after a slip?
Tell someone, seek support, and get back on track
What is one benefit of asking for help?
Reduces isolation and increases accountability