Addiction & Recovery
This substance, which is highly addictive and dangerous, plays a central role in Nic’s struggle.
What is methamphetamine?
Nic’s father, played by this actor, struggles to understand his son’s addiction.
(Who is Steve Carell?)
Addiction is often linked to this, which Nic experiences throughout the film
What is mental health struggles?
Nic’s multiple relapses show that recovery is not a straight line but rather this
What is a journey or process?)
How does David Sheff initially try to help Nic with his addiction?
What is researching addiction and getting him into treatment?
In recovery, this phrase emphasizes that overcoming addiction is an ongoing process, just like Nic’s journey.
True or False: Relapse is a normal part of recovery
What is true?
Nic turns to drugs partly due to this type of pain, which many people in recovery relate to.
What is emotional pain or trauma?
Nic lies to his parents about his sobriety, showing how addiction often leads to this behavior
What is deception or dishonesty?
Nic’s journey shows that even after relapse, it is still possible to do this
What is recover?
Nic’s father, David, struggles with this challenge that many loved ones of people in addiction face.
(What is enabling behavior?)
Nic’s father learns that love alone cannot do this for someone in addiction
(What is "save them from addiction"?)
This condition, often found in people struggling with addiction, causes extreme highs and lows in emotions.
What is bipolar disorder?
This feeling, which Nic experiences, can be a major trigger for relapse
What is shame or guilt?
What is a key sign that Nic is manipulating his father for drug money?
What is lying about needing money for school or rent?
At what age does Nic first start experimenting with drugs?
This term describes when loved ones unintentionally support addictive behaviors.
(What is enabling?)
Nic’s father reads research on addiction and the brain, showing that addiction is not a choice but this.
(What is a disease?)
Despite wanting to recover, Nic struggles because addiction rewires this organ
What is the brain?
David’s persistence in seeking help for Nic shows this important quality for loved ones
What is unconditional love?
Support groups like this 12-step program, which Nic attends, help many people in recovery
(What is Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous?)
Nic’s relationship with his younger siblings changes due to his addiction, showing how it affects this part of life.
(What is family dynamics?)
This coping mechanism, which Nic lacks early in the film, is essential for handling cravings and triggers.
What are healthy coping skills?)
This is the key lesson Nic’s father learns: sometimes, loved ones have to do this for their own well-being.
What is let go or set boundaries?
The movie teaches that addiction does not define a person, and recovery is about rediscovering this.
What is self-worth or identity?