Life Problems
Q: What are two reasons why people in active addiction fail to deal with problems?
A: Distorted thinking caused by addiction and prioritizing getting and using drugs.
Q: What is the first step in solving any problem?
A: Identifying the problem.
Q: Why might newly sober individuals struggle with problem-solving?
A: They may have trouble concentrating, feel disoriented, and have a short attention span.
Q: What is the first aspect of willingness necessary for solving problems?
A: Accepting that there are problems that need to be solved.
Q: What should be done after identifying a problem?
A: Own the problem by understanding its origins and your contribution.
Q: Why might problems accumulate during active addiction?
A: Problems accumulate because individuals ignore them due to the priority of getting and using drugs.
Q: What does it mean to "own the problem"?
A: Understanding how the problem started, how one's behaviors contributed to it, and being willing to change.
Q: How can sponsors, family members, and sober friends assist in early sobriety?
A: They can help solve problems and improve problem-solving skills.
Q: What attitude should one have towards the existence of solutions?
A: Believing that there is a solution for whatever problems exist.
Q: What is an important consideration when listing possible solutions?
A: Including solutions that have not been tried before and consulting others.
Q: What is a typical response to problems during active addiction?
A: People become overwhelmed and ignore their problems.
Q: Why is listing all possible solutions important?
A: It allows for considering new approaches and solutions that haven't been tried before.
Q: What new issues might arise for individuals in early recovery?
A: Problems due to recovery itself and lack of experience in dealing with day-to-day issues.
Q: Why is a willingness to make changes in oneself important?
A: It facilitates solving the problem and prevents recurrence.
Q: Why is it important to have a backup plan in problem-solving?
A: In case the original solution does not work or the situation changes.
Q: How does distorted thinking impact problem recognition in active addiction?
A: It prevents individuals from seeing the true nature of their problems and makes them believe they are not responsible.
Q: What should you consider when describing possible outcomes for solutions?
A: Short- and long-term objectives, and the feasibility of the solutions.
Q: What are common feelings individuals might experience when facing problems in early sobriety?
A: Overwhelm, exaggeration of problem severity, and guilt or shame.
Q: What is a balanced approach to dealing with problems?
A: Not letting problems become overwhelming and not avoiding them.
Q: What should you do if a previously tried solution worked?
A: Try it again to see if it can solve the problem consistently.
Q: Why is recognizing the importance of “willingness” crucial in solving problems?
A: It helps in finding solutions and making necessary changes to address problems effectively.
Q: What should be done if a solution fails multiple times?
A: Stop trying the same solution and try a different approach.
Q: Why is it important to not use problems as an excuse for relapse?
A: It prevents taking responsibility and finding constructive solutions.
Q: How can believing a problem is unsolvable affect problem-solving efforts?
A: It can prevent efforts to solve the problem and lead to dwelling on it instead.
Q: How can learning from the outcome improve future problem-solving?
A: By understanding what worked best and what didn’t, enabling better strategies in the future.