Recovery Basics
What does "SUD" stand for?
Substance Abuse Disorder
Define “trigger.”
(A person, place, emotion, or situation that causes the urge to use)
Name a healthy coping skill for stress.
(Deep breathing, journaling, walking, Fishing, etc.)
What is one way to manage your time better in recovery?
(Using a schedule, setting reminders, prioritizing tasks)
What does “casting a line” represent in early recovery?
Reaching out for help or trying new tools and support systems.
Name one common symptom of alcohol withdrawal.
Anxiety or irritability, Headache, Tremors (shaky hands), Sweating, Nausea or vomiting, Insomnia, Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), Loss of appetite
What is a craving?
(An intense desire or urge to use a substance)
What does CBT stand for?
(Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
Why is having a daily routine helpful in recovery?
(It creates structure, reduces boredom, and supports consistency)
What is the recovery version of a fishing “net,” designed to catch you when you fall?
Your support system—counselors, peers, family, or sponsors.
What does “relapse” mean in recovery?
(Returning to substance use after a period of sobriety)
Name one environmental trigger.
(e.g., certain people, places, events)
What is emotional regulation?
(Managing and responding to emotions in healthy ways)
What is a budget, and why is it important?
(A financial plan to manage money and avoid financial stress)
What has keys but can’t open locks?
A piano
Define the term “abstinence.”
Avoiding all use of drugs or alcohol completely)
Name one internal trigger.
(e.g., loneliness, anxiety, anger)
What’s one way to practice self-care?
(Sleep, eating well, hobbies such as FISHING, setting boundaries by saying no, etc.)
How can setting boundaries help you stay sober?
(It protects your peace, prevents relapse, and supports healthy relationships)
What does “checking your line” mean in recovery terms?
Self-reflection—checking in with yourself emotionally and mentally.
What does a sponsor hold for you that will benefit your long-term recovery goal?
HOLDS YOU ACCOUNTABLE!!!!!!!
How long does an average craving usually last?
(15–30 minutes)
How does changing your thoughts help in recovery?
(Thoughts affect feelings and behaviors—changing them can change outcomes)
Name a healthy habit that supports long-term recovery.
e.g., meal prepping, morning routines, regular sleep schedule)
I have cities, but no houses. I have forests, but no trees. I have rivers, but no water. What am I?
A map
Name a key benefit of long-term recovery.
(Improved health, memory, relationships, job stability, self-esteem, etc.)
What is a high-risk situation?
(A circumstance where relapse is more likely)
How does exercise help with recovery?
(Reduces stress, improves mood, boosts health)
What does "accountability" mean in recovery?
Being responsible for your actions and choices)
What’s the recovery version of switching bait if the fish aren’t biting?
Trying new strategies or therapies when current ones aren’t working.
Why is honesty important in the recovery process?
It builds trust, allows for genuine self-reflection, and is essential for personal growth and effective treatment.
What’s one way to cope with a trigger?
(Call someone, leave the situation, mindfulness meditations, e.g., Pause and Breathe, GO FISHING!!!!!)
What’s the difference between avoiding and coping?
(Avoiding suppresses emotions; coping addresses them)
What’s one way to improve communication in relationships?
(Active listening, using “I” statements, staying calm)
I’m not alive, but I can grow. I don’t have lungs, but I need air. What am I?
Fire
What is the goal of residential treatment?
(To provide structured support for early recovery)
What role does mindfulness play in managing cravings?
(It helps you observe the craving without reacting to it)
Name 3 healthy ways to deal with anger.
(Deep breathing, talking it out, physical activity, FISHING, etc.)
Why is self-awareness important in recovery?
(It helps you notice patterns, triggers, and emotional responses)
In deep-sea fishing, storms can come suddenly. What is the recovery takeaway from that?
Life can hit hard without warning—being prepared with tools and support helps you stay grounded and avoid relapse.
What’s the difference between treatment and recovery?
Treatment is a structured process to begin healing (like rehab or therapy), while recovery is the ongoing journey of maintaining sobriety and building a healthier life.
Name 3 coping tools to deal with cravings.
(Examples: grounding, calling a sponsor, exercise)
How can practicing gratitude support your mental health and recovery journey?
Gratitude shifts focus away from stress and negativity, builds resilience, and promotes a positive mindset, which can reduce the risk of relapse.
Name a strategy to manage boredom, which can increase the risk of relapse.
(Hobbies:FISHING}, volunteering, learning new skills)
I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I have no body, but I come alive with wind. What am I?
An echo
What’s the difference between physical and psychological dependence?
Physical involves withdrawal symptoms; psychological involves emotional cravings and compulsions.
How does your brain react to a trigger on a neurological level?
Triggers activate the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine and creating a craving or urge by recalling past substance use and the “high” associated with it.
How does self-compassion help in recovery, especially after setbacks or relapses?
Self-compassion reduces shame and guilt, encourages accountability without self-punishment, and helps individuals stay engaged in the recovery process instead of giving up.
What does it mean to be emotionally independent?
(Being able to manage your emotions without relying on substances or others to "fix" them)
Justin says it at the end of every group. I wish you all:
LOVE, PEACE, & CHICKEN GREASE