True or False
Addiction can happen at any stage in life.
True.
Define coping skills.
Strategies you use to manage stress.
Define self-care.
Intentional actions you take to support your health and well-being.
Define boundaries.
The limits you set to protect your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. They define what is and isn't acceptable in your interactions with situations, other people, and yourself.
What is Relapse Prevention?
Relapse prevention is a critical component of addiction recovery, aimed at reducing the likelihood of returning to substance use after a period of sobriety. It encompasses various strategies that help individuals identify and manage triggers, cope with cravings, and maintain their recovery journey.
If addiction doesn't run in your family, you won't struggle with addiction.
False.
Name 3 coping skills.
mindfulness, meditation, grounding, physical activity, creative outlets (painting, playing an instrument, journaling, etc), and social support, to name a few!
Why is self-care important?
stress reduction, increases self-worth, healthier relationships, improved quality of life, improved physical health, etc.
Physical - protects your body, personal space, and comfort zone. They include physical touch, personal belongings, and the right to privacy.
Emotional - safeguards your feelings and emotions. Communicating your needs protects you from emotional harm and fosters healthier relationships.
Mental - protects you from getting caught up in negative or harmful thoughts.
Time - protects your energy.
Name five Relapse Prevention skills.
play the tape through, have an emergency contact list, grounding techniques, join a support group, know your triggers, & self-care to name a few!
Relapse means you have to start all over again.
False.
Define triggers.
Internal or external stimuli that activate cravings or memories associated with substance use, significantly impacting recovery and increasing the risk of relapse.
you don't have time, lack of energy or motivation, mental health symptoms, guilt, financial limitations, etc.
Why are boundaries important for recovery?
By setting clear limits, individuals can avoid situations, people, or influences that might tempt them to use substances again.
These limits also foster self-respect and confidence. They communicate to others what is acceptable and what isn't, which helps build healthier relationships based on mutual respect. Additionally, boundaries help prevent emotional exhaustion and resentment, common issues when personal needs are overlooked.
What are the 3 stages of relapse?
Emotional Relapse: Individuals may neglect self-care and bottle up emotions without actively thinking about using substances.
Mental Relapse: This stage involves cravings and nostalgic thoughts about past substance use, leading to internal conflict.
Physical Relapse: The actual return to substance use occurs, often triggered by the preceding emotional and mental stages.
Community engagement is a great way to remain sober.
True.
Name 2 types of triggers.
Physical - people, places & things.
Emotional - stress, depression, anxiety, anger, etc
Environmental - dysfunctional living situations, certain neighborhoods or homes.
Behavioral - negative self-talk, thoughts of shame or guilt
Give 4 examples of self-care.
good-quality sleep, eating healthy, taking medications as prescribed, walking/running, participating in things you enjoy (puzzles, games, hobbies), reading, meditation, yoga, attending church, volunteering, social activities, practicing gratitude, spending time in nature, buying yourself a treat or small gift, listening to music, etc.
What are the risks of having poor boundaries?
What are the possible barriers of Relapse Prevention?
Relapse Prevention can be challenging due to the complexity of addiction and the need for constant awareness and support. It requires individuals to learn practical skills to recognize and manage triggers, emotional distress, and thoughts related to substance use.
Glorifying use isn't harmful to yourself or others.
False.
Why are coping skills important for recovery?
These skills help you confront life's challenges without reverting to substance use, fostering greater resilience and emotional balance.
What are some examples of things that are not self-care?
excessive time on screens (such as social media, television, and video games), neglecting basic needs like eating and showering, overextending yourself with activities, and failing to prioritize your own needs.
What are some steps to start setting boundaries?
1. Reflect on your personal needs.
2. Clearly define your boundaries.
3. Communicate your boundaries assertively and respectfully.
4. Start small by setting boundaries in less challenging situations to build confidence.
5. Be consistent in maintaining your boundaries to avoid confusion and reinforce your expectations.
6. Practice saying “no” without guilt when requests conflict with your boundaries.
7. Address boundary violations calmly by restating your limits and explaining their importance.
8. Allow yourself to feel any discomfort, such as guilt or anxiety, as you adjust to setting boundaries.
What are some examples of aftercare?
peer support groups, outpatient (individual and group therapy), psychotherapy, medication management, & residential treatment.