Recovery Basics
The first step in a 12-step program
What is admitting powerlessness over addiction?
Name one benefit of group therapy in recovery
Support, shared experiences, accountability, etc.
True or False: A single relapse means complete failure in recovery
False
What is a "trigger" in recovery?
A person, place, or thing that causes urges for behaviors or cravings for substances
What is the pleasure chemical in the brain
What is dopamine
Addiction is a three fold disease what are those folds. These can also be called dimensions or characteristics and they are discussed in the Big Book
What are a physical allergy, mental obsession, and spiritual malady
What is the role of a peer support group?
Provides encouragement and guidance from those with similar experiences.
What is the difference between a lapse and a relapse?
A lapse is a one-time use; a relapse is a return to old patterns
Name a common emotional trigger for relapse
Stress, anxiety, loneliness, etc.
This is the part of the brain that is responsible for decision-making, planning, and impulse control. Addiction can damage the prefrontal cortex, making it difficult for people to resist urges to use drugs and making it harder for them to make healthy choices.
The prefrontal cortex
The purpose of a treatment plan
What is to outline goals and strategies for recovery?
Name a family role that can develop in a household affected by addiction.
Enabler, scapegoat, hero, lost child, etc.
Why is self-care important in preventing relapse?
Helps manage stress, improves mental health, and supports emotional stability.
What is one healthy way to cope with cravings?
Exercise, mindfulness, calling a sponsor, etc.
What is most effective in treating addiction.
Alcoholics are unable to become moderate drinkers and that only ______ and the support of the AA community can lead to recovery.
What is Total Abstinence
Over time, the body gets used to the substance, so a person with addiction needs more of it to get the same effect.
What is Tolerance
How can setting boundaries help in recovery?
Prevents enabling, protects mental health, and supports independence.
What is the purpose of a relapse prevention plan?
To identify triggers, warning signs, and coping strategies to avoid relapse
Why is having a daily routine important in recovery?
It provides structure, reduces stress, and minimizes boredom, which can lead to relapse
What part of the brain is responsible for processing emotions. Think of the waterboy
The Medulla Oblongota (I will also accept amygdala)
Name three types of recovery programs
AA, NA, SMART Recovery, Celebrate Recovery, etc.
Why is giving back to the recovery community important?
Reinforces personal growth, creates purpose, and strengthens commitment to sobriety.
What is “urge surfing” in recovery?
A mindfulness technique to ride out cravings without giving in.
What does the HALT acronym stand for?
Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired—common relapse triggers
What is anhedonia, and how does it relate to recovery
Inability to feel pleasure; common in early sobriety due to dopamine depletion