Triggers & Awareness
What is a trigger, and why is it important to recognize it early in recovery?
A trigger is a situation, person, feeling, or thought that increases the urge to use; recognizing it early allows you to use coping skills before cravings escalate.
Name one physical coping skill that can calm the nervous system.
Deep breathing, walking, stretching, cold water on face.
You run into someone you used with at a store. Name one healthy response.
Leave the area, call a support person, set a boundary, or use grounding.
True or False: Coping skills should make stress disappear completely.
False — they reduce intensity and help you manage stress, not eliminate it.
What is one thing you should include in a personal coping plan?
Triggers, coping skills, support contacts, or emergency steps.
Name two physical signs that may indicate a craving is starting.
Examples: tight chest, restlessness, sweating, racing heart, stomach tension.
What is a social coping skill and why is it effective?
Reaching out to a support person; it reduces isolation and increases accountability.
You’re stressed after a parole or court meeting. What’s one healthy coping step?
Take a walk, breathe, call support, journal, or attend a meeting.
What’s one reason people stop using coping skills too early?
They expect immediate results or feel uncomfortable using new skills.
Why is it helpful to write your coping plan down?
It’s easier to remember and follow during stress or cravings.
What is the difference between a trigger and a craving?
A trigger is the situation or cue; a craving is the internal urge or desire that follows.
Why are emotional coping skills important in recovery?
They help process feelings instead of avoiding or numbing them with substances.
You feel bored late at night. Name two healthy alternatives to using.
Exercise, watch a show, call someone, read, plan next day, listen to music.
What’s a healthier thought than “I can’t handle this without using”?
This is uncomfortable, but I have tools and support to get through it.”
What’s one sign your coping plan needs updating?
New triggers, skills not working, or changes in routine/support.
Why is boredom considered a high-risk trigger in recovery?
It lowers structure and increases rumination, which can lead to cravings and impulsive decisions.
What is a cognitive coping skill?
A way to change or challenge unhelpful thoughts, such as reframing or reality-checking.
A family member criticizes your recovery. What’s an assertive response?
Use an “I” statement, set a boundary, or ask for support respectfully.
Why is asking for help considered a coping skill?
It increases connection, accountability, and reduces relapse risk.
Who should know about your coping plan?
A sponsor, therapist, parole officer (if appropriate), or trusted support person.
What is one way to track patterns in your triggers over time?
Journaling, mood tracking, recovery apps, or discussing patterns in group or with a sponsor/therapist.
Why is it helpful to have coping skills in more than one category?
Different situations require different tools; having options increases success in managing stress and cravings.
You miss a meeting or appointment. What’s the healthiest next step?
Take responsibility, communicate, and make a plan to get back on track.
What does “progress, not perfection” mean in recovery?
Growth comes from consistent effort, not never making mistakes.
What’s one long-term habit that strengthens coping ability overall?
Sleep, routine, meetings, therapy, exercise, or healthy relationships.