Making Changes
What do we call the difficulties of change that may include fear of the unknown, loneliness, and frustration?
What are challenges during change?
What mental health concern can make people worry about meeting new people or being judged?
What is anxiety?
What is a strong desire or urge to use a substance called?
What is a craving?
What type of friendship includes respect, honesty, trust, and support?
What is a healthy friendship?
Name two healthy activities that can help replace old routines.
Walking, exercising, cooking, reading, drawing, or listening to music.
What are you doing when you learn what supports your health, safety, and future goals instead of trying to change everything overnight?
What are making positive lifestyle changes?
What condition can affect energy, concentration, sleep, and interest in activities?
What is depression?
What do we call something that brings up cravings, difficult emotions, or an urge to return to a familiar behavior?
What is a trigger?
What is a limit you establish to protect your well-being called?
What is a boundary?
What can help you manage responsibilities, maintain healthy habits, and reduce unplanned time?
What is a healthy routine?
Why might people struggle to change familiar routines, even when those routines are unhealthy?
Because familiar routines provide comfort and familiarity.
What should you ask yourself to better understand your emotions before reacting to a difficult situation?
What am I feeling, what caused this feeling, and what do I need?
Name two situations that may trigger cravings or make recovery more difficult.
Spending time with people who use substances, visiting places where substances were previously used, feeling lonely or stressed, or attending parties where substances are present.
Is it possible to care about someone while recognizing that the relationship may not be healthy for you right now? Why or why not?
Yes. You can care about someone while still creating distance or setting boundaries.
Name two places or activities where someone might meet supportive people and develop new friendships.
Recovery meetings, support groups, classes, volunteering, hobbies, or community activities.
What does the article recommend doing instead of trying to change everything at once?
Start with one or two realistic changes.
Name two healthy ways to manage difficult emotions, such as stress, anger, or sadness.
Taking a break, practicing slow breathing, writing down thoughts, exercising, or talking with someone you trust.
If someone experiences a setback during recovery, what should they do to help strengthen their recovery?
Identify what contributed to the setback, learn from the experience, and strengthen their recovery plan.
What should you consider doing if a friend repeatedly pressures you to use substances or disrespects your boundaries?
Create distance, leave the situation, or reconsider the relationship.
What is the difference between healthy time alone and isolation?
Healthy time alone allows for rest and reflection, while isolation involves withdrawing from supportive connections in ways that may make difficult emotions harder to manage.
According to the article, mental health and substance use problems are not simply signs of what?
Weakness or a lack of willpower.
If depression continues or interferes with daily life, what type of professional should someone consider speaking with?
A mental health professional.
Why should someone who may be physically dependent on alcohol or certain drugs seek medical advice before suddenly stopping?
Because withdrawal can be medically dangerous.
According to the article, what is the purpose of setting boundaries?
To protect your well-being and progress, not to punish other people.
Name three types of people or resources that may be part of a healthy support system.
Trusted friends, family members, counselors, healthcare professionals, peer recovery groups, or community organizations.