Category 1: Support Systems
Question: What is the name of a well-known mutual support program for substance use recovery?
Answer: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
What is one example of a harm reduction tool for opioid use?
Naloxone (Narcan) to reverse overdoses, clean syringes, or fentanyl test strips.
What is one mental health symptom that might co-occur with substance use?
Anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
What is a common sign of an opioid overdose?
Slow or no breathing, unconsciousness, or pinpoint pupils.
What is the main goal of harm reduction?
To reduce the negative consequences of substance use while supporting individuals without requiring abstinence.
Question: How many steps are in the Alcoholics Anonymous program?
12.
What brain chemical is often linked to the “reward” feeling from drug use?
Dopamine.
What is the term for when someone has both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition?
Dual diagnosis (or co-occurring disorder).
What medication can reverse an opioid overdose?
Naloxone (Narcan).
Name one principle of harm reduction that emphasizes treating people with respect.
Value neutrality and non-judgmental approach (or promotion of human rights).
Question: Why are support systems important in recovery?
They provide accountability, encouragement, and a sense of community to reduce isolation.
Why might smoking a substance be encouraged over injecting in harm reduction?
Smoking reduces the risk of disease transmission and overdose compared to injecting.
How can mindfulness help in recovery?
It helps separate oneself from addictive urges and promotes self-awareness and emotional regulation.
Name one way to lower the risk of an overdose.
Use smaller amounts, avoid mixing substances, use with others present, or test for fentanyl.
True or False: Harm reduction encourages drug use.
False. Harm reduction focuses on reducing risks and harms, not promoting use.
What is one way a treatment facility can support harm reduction?
: Offer naloxone training, provide clean supplies, or connect clients to syringe exchange programs.
What percentage of addiction vulnerability is attributed to genetics?
Approximately 40-60%.
What is one coping skill to manage stress without using substances?
Deep breathing, exercise, journaling, or talking to a supportive person.
What should you do after administering naloxone to someone overdosing?
Call 911, stay with the person, and provide rescue breathing if needed.
Why might harm reduction programs provide clean syringes?
To prevent disease transmission, like HIV or hepatitis C, by ensuring sterile equipment.
Question: How can peers in a treatment facility act as a support system for each other?
By sharing experiences, offering encouragement, holding each other accountable, and fostering a non-judgmental environment.
Name a medication used in harm reduction to treat opioid addiction.
Methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone.
Why is addressing mental health important for men in recovery?
Men may face stigma around mental health, and untreated issues can trigger relapse or worsen substance use. Addressing both improves recovery outcomes.
Why is it important to have naloxone available in a treatment facility?
It can save lives by quickly reversing opioid overdoses, especially in high-risk settings.
How does harm reduction differ from traditional abstinence-only programs?
Harm reduction focuses on reducing harm and improving quality of life on a continuum from safer use to abstinence, while abstinence-only programs require complete cessation of substance use.