Substance Use
What is one way to handle a craving without using?
Calling someone, distraction, self-talk, etc.?
This common mental illness causes persistent sadness and loss of interest.
Depression
This neurotransmitter is linked to motivation and reward, and plays a role in addiction and depression.
Dopamine
Approximately what percentage of U.S. adults experience a mental illness in a given year?
1 in 5 (or about 20%)
Name one grounding technique used during high anxiety or panic.
5-4-3-2-1, holding ice, deep breathing, etc.?
“I now see how owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing we’ll ever do.”
Hint: Researcher known for studying shame and vulnerability — and has a Netflix special.
Brené Brown
What is the first step in a 12-step program?
Admitting we are powerless over our addiction
Name a symptom of anxiety.
Racing thoughts, sweating, panic, etc.
This part of the brain controls decision-making, problem-solving, and impulse control — and often develops last in teens.
Pre-frontal cortex
According to the CDC, what percentage of people with a substance use disorder also have a co-occurring mental health condition?
About 50%
This practice focuses your attention on the present.
Mindfulness Meditation
“I am not broken. I am a mosaic of experiences, scars, and lessons.”
Hint: Pop singer and actress who’s openly shared about recovery from addiction and bipolar disorder.
Demi Lovato
Q: In relapse prevention planning, what is the difference between an internal and external trigger? Give one example of each.
An internal trigger is a feeling or thought (like loneliness), and an external trigger is a situation or person (like passing by a bar)
Name one reason why someone might avoid seeking help for a mental health condition.
Fear of judgment, cultural beliefs, financial concerns, lack of access, etc.
This stress hormone is released by the adrenal glands and plays a major role in the body’s response to anxiety.
Cortisol
What percentage of U.S. adults reported symptoms of anxiety or depression in 2023, according to the Household Pulse Survey?
Around 30%
After identifying a trigger, what’s one coping skill that can help you avoid reacting impulsively?
Pause and breathe, use STOP skill, call someone before acting, etc.
“I used to think I was weak for needing help. Now I know how strong I am because I asked for it.”
Hint: Rapper who performed “1-800-273-8255” about suicide prevention.
Logic
Name three specific signs that might indicate someone is heading toward relapse even if they haven’t used.
Skipping meetings, isolating from support, romanticizing past use, etc.
Medication for depression usually affects this brain chemical.
Serotonin
This area of the brain is key for forming and recalling memories and is often affected by chronic trauma.
Hippocampus
Among adults with a mental illness in the U.S., what percentage receive any form of treatment?
About 47%
You wake up with racing thoughts and anxiety. What is one morning routine habit that could help ground you?
Mindful breathing, stretching, writing 3 things you’re grateful for, etc.
“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.”
Hint: Civil rights icon and author of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.
Maya Angelou
Cravings usually last around this amount of time.
15-30 minutes
This type of therapy helps clients regulate emotions, tolerate distress, and improve relationships—especially used with individuals that struggle with impulsivity.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
The fight-or-flight response is controlled by this part of the brain.
Amygdala
According to recent national data, what is the estimated economic cost of untreated mental illness in the U.S. annually?
Over $200 billion
This cognitive skill involves changing a negative or distorted thought into something more balanced.
Cognitive reframing
“It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop.”
Hint: Ancient Chinese philosopher known for timeless wisdom.
Confucius