Triggers
What is a trigger?
A person, place, feeling, or situation that creates the urge to use or act out.
Why is it important to have more than one coping skill?
Different situations require different coping mechanisms.
Recite the Serenity Prayer
"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."
What is one way to take care of your mental health daily?
Getting enough sleep, practicing gratitude, daily affirmations, talking to someone you trust, doing something you enjoy
What is a good daily habit that supports sober living?
Attending meetings, making bed, journaling, planning meals, daily routine, sponsorship
What is a personal boundary?
A limit you set to protect your well-being, values, and recovery.
True or False: Coping skills are only used during crisis.
False. Coping skills can be used daily to manage emotions, stay regulated, and prevent relapse.
What does it mean to turn your will over to a Higher Power in Step 3?
Trusting a power greater than yourself to guide your recovery and decision-making.
What does it mean to set a boundary?
Telling others what is okay or not okay with you so you can protect your mental and emotional well-being.
Name one reason why structure is important in early recovery?
It reduces chaos, builds accountability, and helps prevent relapse.
True or False: You can control every trigger you encounter.
False. You cant always control triggers, but you can control responses.
Whats an example of a proactive coping skill?
What does it mean to take a personal inventory?
Identifying resentments and unresolved anger, fears and insecurities, harm youve caused to others, patterns of dishonesty, selfishness, or avoidance. Increasing self-awareness, taking accountability, identifying areas for growth, preparing to make amends, breaking out of denial
What does it mean to check in with yourself?
How am I feeling? How is my body feeling? What am I grateful for? What are my needs today? How am I treating myself? What are my goals today?
What is one sign that you're neglecting self-care?
Feeling burned out, irritable, skipping meals, poor hygiene, or isolating.
Name two emotional triggers that could lead to relapse.
Feeling rejected, lonely, ashamed, overwhelmed, angry
Explain the difference between distraction and avoidance as coping mechanisms.
Distracgtion is a short-term strategy to manage distress without harm (music, games, puzzles); avoidance is avoiding the issue altogether, which can delary healing or create more problems (going to sleep)
What is the purpose of making amends in step 9?
to take responsibility for past harm and repair relationships where possible.
What is one healthy way to deal with anger without hurting yourself or others?
Punching bag, scream in a pillow, squeeze a stress ball, deep breaths, etc
What is the difference between self-soothing and self-care?
Self-soothing is calming yourself in the moment (music, shower, tapping); self-care is regular habits that support long-term well-being (sleep hygiene, routines, therapy, nutrition)
What does it mean to control someone else?
Trying to change their actions instead of protecting your own recovery.
Name 5 coping skills.
deep breathing, journaling, physical activity, grounding techniques, reaching out for support, engaging in a hobby
Why is Step 12 considered both a spiritual awakening and a responsibility in recovery?
Because it reflects personal growth through the steps and encourages giving back by carrying the message to others, which strengthens one's own recovery through service and continued spiritual practice.
Whats the difference between mental health and mental illness?
What is one healthy way to respond if someone you live with in sober living relapses?
Set clear boundaries, avoid enabling, reach out for support, protect your own recovery by removing yourself from unsafe situations