Triggers & Cravings
Name one sneaky trigger that doesn’t seem obvious at first.
Boredom, overconfidence, having money, good mood, celebrations
Name a coping skill people avoid using even though it helps—and why they avoid it.
Calling someone (pride), journaling (effort), meetings (anxiety)
Name one behavior that looks small but can lead to relapse over time.
Isolating, skipping meals, poor sleep, not checking in
Name a way someone might cross your boundaries without you noticing at first.
Guilt, pressure, manipulation, “just this once” requests
Name a thought that sounds harmless but could lead to relapse.
“I’m fine now,” “just one won’t hurt,” “I don’t need help”
What are signs you might be heading toward a risky situation without realizing it?
Justifying plans, ignoring red flags, “it’ll be fine,” not telling anyone
What is something you can do when you don’t feel like using coping skills?
Do it anyway, start small, ask for help, change environment
What are some ways people slowly stop prioritizing recovery?
Skipping meetings, not reaching out, focusing on others, getting complacent
What are signs a relationship might be unhealthy for your recovery?
Pressure to use, drama, lack of support, dishonesty
What are some ways negative thinking can affect your behavior?
Giving up, isolating, unhealthy choices, lack of motivation
What are some ways that your thinking can trick you right before relapse?
Minimizing, romanticizing use, “just once,” comparing to others
Name a healthy way to deal with anger without making things worse.
Walk away, cool down, talk it out, exercise
Name an excuse people use when they’re close to relapse.
“I deserve it,” “just this once,” “no one will know,” “I can handle it
Name some reasons people struggle to set boundaries.
Fear of conflict, guilt, wanting to be liked, fear of losing people
Name two ways to challenge a negative thought.
Question it, talk to someone, look at facts, reframe it
How can cravings show up besides just “wanting to use”?
Irritability, restlessness, mood swings, impulsivity, obsessing
What are some ways to break out of a negative headspace quickly?
Move your body, change environment, talk to someone, distract yourself
What are things that help prevent relapse before cravings even start?
Routine, support system, structure, self-care, planning
What are some strategies to protect your recovery in social situations?
Bring support, have an exit plan, limit time, avoid certain places
What are signs you’re being too hard on yourself in recovery?
Perfectionism, guilt, shame, all-or-nothing thinking
Name one situation that might feel safe but could actually lead to relapse—and explain why.
Hanging with old friends, going back home, getting paid, being alone too long
Name a coping skill that works long-term but doesn’t feel good right away.
Honesty, routine, therapy, setting boundaries
Name one warning sign that you/someone else might be struggling—even if they say they’re fine.
Attitude change, isolation, defensiveness, lack of effort
Name a situation where saying “yes” could actually harm your recovery—and explain why.
Helping others too much, going somewhere risky, ignoring your needs
Name a mindset shift that helps people stay sober long-term—and explain why.
One day at a time, asking for help, staying honest, focusing on progress