Triggers and Cravings
What is a trigger? Give one example.
An internal or external feeling or thing that causes a desire to use substances. (ex. people, places, things).
What is the definition of a coping skill?
Strategies or techniques that can be utilized to manage stress, negative emotions, challenging situations, and triggers for use.
True or False: Addiction is an active choice that people make.
False, Addiction is a complex disease that affects brain function and behavior.
What is a sponsor?
A person in recovery who guides and supports someone else.
Name one fun activity you can do sober.
(ex. hiking, cooking, music, games, zoo, park).
How are internal and external triggers different?
internal triggers happen within the self, external triggers are outside of the self.
What is one healthy way to cope with stress?
Exercise, deep breathing, journaling, talking to someone.
True or False: You can become addicted to prescribed medications.
True, many prescription drugs can be addictive is misused.
What’s the purpose of a support group like AA/NA?
To provide accountability, connection, and shared experience.
Why is routine important in recovery?
It builds structure, reduces stress, and replaces old habits.
Name two emotional triggers.
Examples: stress, loneliness, anger, sadness, guilt.
What’s one thing you can do when you feel overwhelmed?
Step away, breathe, talk to someone, write it down.
True or False: A relapse means that you have failed.
False, Relapse is often part of the recovery process and indicates a need to adjust treatment.
Name one thing in a relapse prevention plan.
Triggers list, coping skills, emergency contacts, warning signs.
How can you celebrate a sober milestone in a healthy way?
Host a sober event, go to dinner, treat yourself, share in group.
What are 3 signs of a craving?
Restlessness, obsessive thoughts, physical tension, irritability.
Name three healthy coping skills you’ve used or want to try.
(ex. journaling, deep breathing, yoga, exercise, thought stopping)
True or False: Addiction changes the way that the brain works.
True, Addiction causes lasting changes to brain circuits involved in reward, stress, and self-control.
What are 3 common self-care practices that support long-term recovery?
(ex. face masks, skincare, exercise, meditation, praying)
How do you respond if someone offers you drugs or alcohol?
Say no firmly, remove yourself, call someone for support.
What can you do when you feel a strong urge to use?
Call a support person, use grounding techniques, go for a walk, distract yourself.
What is mindfulness? How can it be beneficial in recovery?
Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment, without judgment, as it is. It can help you be fully aware of your thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surroundings; reduce stress, and manage urges.
True or False: Cravings can be triggered by environmental cues even years after recovery.
True, Triggers can activate conditioned responses long after substance use has stopped.
Name 3 recovery tools you can use daily.
(ex. journaling, prayer, meetings, gratitude, exercise)
What does “sober support system” mean to you?
A network of people who help you stay accountable and safe.