Triggers & Cravings
These are people, places, or situations that can increase the urge to use substances.
Triggers
Name one healthy coping skill.
Deep breathing, walking, music, journaling, talking to someone, etc
What is gratitude?
Recognizing and appreciating positive things in life.
Myth or Fact: Addiction is a choice.
Myth.
This term means continuing to use a substance even when it causes problems in a person’s life.
substance use disorder (aka addiction)
Stress, sadness, and anger are examples of this kind of trigger.
internal triggers
This coping skill slows your body and helps calm anxiety.
Deep breathing (or grounding techniques).
Name one small thing someone might be grateful for.
Food, shelter, music, family, etc.
Myth or Fact: Anger is always a bad emotion.
Myth.
This word describes the strong urge or desire to use drugs or alcohol.
craving
Going to a party where others are using drugs or alcohol is an example of this type of trigger.
external trigger
What coping skill involves leaving a triggering situation?
Walking away / removing yourself.
How can gratitude impact mental health?
Improves mood and reduces negative thinking.
Myth or Fact: Substance Use Disorders are chronic medical conditions that change brain chemistry, not just a moral failing or lack of willpower.
Fact (Major medical organizations like the AMA and APA classify SUD as a chronic, relapsing brain disease).
When a person needs more of a substance to get the same effect, it is called this.
tolerance
This coping skill means riding out a craving without giving in until it passes.
urge surfing?
Give one solo coping skill and one social coping skill.
Solo (journaling, music); Social (calling a friend, group support).
How can practicing gratitude during difficult moments impact your choices?
It can slow reactions, increase awareness, and help make healthier decisions instead of acting on impulse.
Myth or Fact: Up to 50% or more of individuals with a severe mental illness will also experience a substance use disorder at some point in their lives.
Fact (National surveys consistently show extremely high rates of co-occurring disorders, often due to overlapping genetic vulnerabilities and self-medication).
These are physical or emotional symptoms that can happen when someone suddenly stops using a substance.
withdrawal
Creating a plan for warning signs, coping skills, and support people helps prevent this.
relapse
Why is it important to have multiple coping skills?
Not all skills work in every situation; variety increases success in coping and healing.
What is one long-term change that can happen when someone practices gratitude consistently?
Improved mindset, increased positivity, better emotional regulation, and stronger recovery foundation.
How can knowing the facts about mental health and addiction help recovery?
Helps understand root causes, reduces shame, and supports change.
This term describes returning to substance use after a period of sobriety or recovery.
relapse