Resisting Temptation
the urge or desire to return to old behaviors like substance use or avoidance
Temptation
What are emotions?
Emotions are signals from your mind and body that give you information about your needs and how to respond.
What is “King Baby Syndrome”?
A pattern where individuals act entitled, struggle with responsibility, and seek immediate gratification.
What is self-esteem?
How you see, feel, and value yourself; your sense of self-worth.
What is accountability in recovery?
Taking responsibility for your actions, being honest, and owning mistakes.
Are urges permanent or temporary?
Temporary if you do use a coping skill
Name one thing emotions influence
Decisions, behavior, relationships, recovery
Name one core characteristic of King Baby.
Demanding immediate gratification / difficulty accepting responsibility / emotional dysregulation/entitlement
What is self-compassion?
Treating yourself with kindness and understanding when you struggle.
What is the opposite of accountability?
Justifying, minimizing, deflecting, or reacting with anger.
Name one type of trigger (external, internal, or hidden) and give an example.
External: environment
Hidden: overconfidence, I can do this alone
Why is emotion awareness important in recovery?
It helps reduce cravings, recognize relapse warning signs, and improve coping.
What is one way King Baby traits show up in addiction?
Blaming others, avoiding responsibility, or expecting special treatment in recovery.
How can low self-esteem impact recovery?
It can increase shame, negative thinking, and risk of relapse.
What is the difference between internal and external accountability?
Internal accountability is taking responsibility on your own, while external accountability is being held responsible by others (like court, family, or probation).
How can mental health symptoms increase temptation?
- impulsivity, wanting to escape, emotional discomfort, mood episodes, anxious without it, low motivation
What is the difference between a thought, emotion, and behavior?
Thought = what you think
Emotion = what you feel
Behavior = what you do
How can King Baby Syndrome negatively impact recovery?
It prevents accountability, honesty, and growth, making recovery more difficult.
What is a core belief?
A deeply held thought about yourself, others, or the world that feels like a fact.
Name one barrier to taking accountability.
Shame, denial, fear of consequences, or low self-esteem.
What is one skill you can use to resist temptation and how does it help?
Delay the urge, urge surfing, change environment, thinking beyond the moment, reach out for support, grounding techniques
What is the difference between primary and secondary emotions?
Primary emotions are the first, automatic feelings; secondary emotions are reactions to those initial feelings (often used to cope or protect).
Name one way to begin overcoming King Baby patterns.
Accept responsibility, regulate emotions, develop realistic expectations, or use healthy communication.
What is one benefit of using positive affirmations in recovery?
They help challenge negative self-talk and build confidence and motivation.
What is one benefit of taking accountability in recovery?
Improved self-esteem, stronger relationships, or long-term recovery success.