đźš— JOE'S STORY
Joe was driving home and wasn't in a hurry. What seemingly small decision did he make?
He chose the scenic route instead of his usual route.
Complete the red-flag thought: “I have to _____.”
Anything that reflects a sense of urgency or lack of choice, such as “I have to go to this party.”
Keeping alcohol in the house because “I don't drink alcohol, so it isn't a problem.”
SID / Risky decision.
What does Cope mean?
When a risky situation can't be avoided, use your coping plan to get through it safely.
According to the worksheet, what should you do first when making a decision?
Consider all the options you have.
What did Joe encounter because he took the scenic route?
A bar where he used to hang out and sometimes bought drugs.
Which red-flag thought is this?
“It won't matter if I just stop by for a few minutes.”
“It won't matter if…”
Calling a supportive friend before going somewhere that may involve triggers.
Safe decision.
What does Avoid mean in this strategy?
Avoid decisions that take you a step closer to danger whenever possible.
What should you consider about each option?
The possible positive and negative outcomes.
Joe told himself, “My problem was never alcohol, it was drugs.” What did this thought allow him to rationalize?
Drinking alcohol despite being in a high-risk environment connected to his past drug use.
Which red-flag thought is this?
“I can handle being around everyone while they're using.”
“I can handle…”
Going to a party where drugs and alcohol will be available because “I'll just stay for an hour.”
SID / Risky decision.
What is the first step when dealing with a seemingly irrelevant decision?
Recognize when you are setting yourself up
What type of decision should you ultimately select?
A safe decision that minimizes the risk of relapse.
Joe said he didn't think about using drugs until his acquaintance offered them. According to the CBT lesson, when did the setup actually begin?
Earlier, with the chain of decisions that gradually moved him closer to a high-risk situation.
Why should someone be especially cautious when a decision feels like it must be made immediately?
Urgency can prevent them from slowing down and consciously considering the consequences.
You have several hours of unexpected free time, so you make a plan to exercise, attend a meeting, and call someone in your support network.
Safe decision.
You realize you're considering driving past an old place where you used to buy drugs. Which step is most appropriate if you can choose another route?
Avoid — take the safer route.
Give a safer alternative to:
“I have nothing planned tonight, so I'll just see what happens.”
Make a plan for the free time, such as an activity, meeting, exercise, or spending time with supportive people.
Why might Joe have made these decisions on this particular night?
His ambivalence about giving up drug use may have influenced his decisions without him fully recognizing it.
A person says, “I don't have a choice but to go.” What should they do before accepting that thought as true?
Stop and consider all available options, including safer alternatives.
You are invited to spend time with friends who are actively using. You tell yourself, “I don't want to offend them.”
SID / Risky decision. The thought may be rationalizing a decision that increases exposure to danger.
You unexpectedly encounter someone using drugs and cannot immediately leave. Which part of the strategy becomes most important?
Cope — use your coping plan to get through the situation safely.
You are deciding whether to attend a gathering where people will be using. Give one risky option, one safe alternative, and one question you could ask yourself before deciding.
Answer: