12 Step Basics
This is the first step in the 12-step program.
What is admitting powerlessness over addiction?
Focusing on the present moment instead of worries about the past or future.
What is mindfulness?
Triggers that come from within, such as feelings or thoughts.
What are internal triggers?
The term for returning to substance use after abstinence.
What is relapse?
Drinking enough of this is essential for health.
What is water?
Tokens or chips often given to recognize lengths of sobriety.
What are sobriety chips (or medallions)?
Writing down thoughts and feelings is called this.
What is journaling?
The process by which the brain learns to associate pleasure with substance use
What is conditioning?
A person who provides encouragement and accountability in recovery.
What is a sponsor (or support person)?
Getting 7–9 hours of this improves mood and energy.
What is sleep?
Step 4 involves making this type of inventory.
What is a moral inventory?
This type of movement-based activity is known to release endorphins and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
What is exercise?
Stress, anger, and loneliness are examples of this category of triggers.
What are emotional triggers?
Taking responsibility for one’s actions and recovery choices.
What is accountability?
Participating in community or group activities
What is social connection?
Step 9 focuses on making these to people we’ve harmed.
What are amends?
This skill involves putting words to your feelings instead of acting on them
What is emotional awareness?
Calling a sponsor or support person during a craving is part of this recovery principle.
What is reaching out for support?
A belief that change and growth are possible.
What is hope?
This morning habit helps set a positive tone for the day and reduces stress.
What is practicing gratitude or positive affirmations?
The spiritual principle behind Step 3.
What is surrender?
Planning tasks ahead of time to reduce overwhelm.
What is time management?
This type of plan helps you prepare for triggers.
What is a relapse prevention plan?
Services that provide ongoing assistance after formal treatment ends.
What is aftercare?
Saying “no” when you need to protect your time is an example of this.
What is setting boundaries?