Songs of Recovery
Acronyms in Substance Use Recovery
Addiction and Lyrics
The Impact of Addiction on the Brain
The Impact of Addiction on the Body
100

This artist’s song “Recovery” is about overcoming struggles and rebuilding one's life.

Who is Eminem?

100

What does HALT stand for in substance use recovery, referring to common warning signs to watch out for?  

What is Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired?

100

This 1994 Nirvana song is often interpreted as a reflection of lead singer Kurt Cobain’s struggles with addiction.

"I've been locked inside your ____-____ ____ for weeks"

What is “Heart-Shaped Box”?

100

Chronic drug use can reduce this area of the brain’s gray matter, which can affect memory and emotional regulation.

What is the hippocampus

100

Heroin use can significantly suppress the immune system, making users more vulnerable to this type of infection.

What is HIV/AIDS?

200

This iconic rock band released “Under the Bridge,” a song that reflects lead singer Anthony Kiedis' struggles with addiction.

What is the Red Hot Chili Peppers?

200

What does FEAR stand for, describing irrational fears that can hinder recovery?

What is False Evidence Appearing Real?

200

This classic rock song by the Rolling Stones includes the line, “I used to love her, but she’s been my downfall,” referring to an unhealthy relationship.

What is "Addicted to Love" by Robert Palmer?

200

This neurotransmitter is most often associated with the brain's reward system and plays a crucial role in addiction.

What is dopamine?

200

Cocaine use can cause a rise in blood pressure and increase the risk of this heart-related condition.

What is heart attack?

300

This song by The Fray, is often associated with addiction and recovery, as it addresses the desperation of reaching out for help and the pain of seeing someone struggling.

What is “How to Save a Life”?

300

What does HOW stand for, representing the essential qualities needed for successful recovery?

What is Honesty, Open-mindedness, Willingness?

300

This iconic rock anthem by The Who includes the line “I can’t get no ________,” reflecting the dissatisfaction often felt during addiction.

What is “Satisfaction”?

300

This chemical messengers’ levels are dramatically altered by substance use, leading to dependency and withdrawal symptoms.

What are neurotransmitters?

300

Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to this liver condition, which may cause severe damage if untreated.

What is cirrhosis?

400

This song by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis speaks directly to the challenges of overcoming addiction and the determination to stay sober, making it an anthem for many in recovery.

What is "Starting Over"?

400

What does SLIP stand for, referring to the moment when sobriety loses its priority and relapse occurs?

What is Sobriety Lost Its Priority?

400

This 2009 song by Pink, which reflects overcoming the pain of addiction and rebuilding her life.

"I don't wanna be the girl who has to feel the silence,
The quiet scares me 'cause it screams the truth."

What is “Sober”?

400

Chronic addiction often causes an imbalance in this chemical system, which is crucial for mood regulation.

What is serotonin?

400

Smoking tobacco is linked to this type of cancer, which is one of the leading causes of death worldwide.

What is lung cancer?

500

This 2007 song by Amy Winehouse, “Rehab,” explores the singer's reluctance to seek help, yet it has been adopted as a reflection of the struggle many face when trying to get clean.

What is “Rehab”?

500

What does DENIAL stand for, describing the state where a person doesn't even notice they're lying to themselves?

hat is Don’t Even Notice I Am Lying?

500

This song by Kelly Clarkson, speaks about the emotional pull and destructive nature of addiction, while also hinting at the desire for breaking free from its grip.

"I’m _____ to you, but I know that I shouldn’t be."

What is "Addicted"?

500

This part of the brain is responsible for decision-making and impulse control, and is often impaired by addiction.

What is the prefrontal cortex?

500

Chronic opioid use can lead to this serious condition, marked by slowed breathing and a decrease in heart rate

What is respiratory depression?

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