RELAPSE JUSTIFICATIONS
A common thought that gives someone permission to use.
“It’s just one time.” (Any example that is similar)
True or False: Thoughts are the same as facts.
False.
Skipping support is an example of this.
Early relapse warning sign.
Waiting 20 minutes before acting on an urge is called this.
Delay / urge surfing.
True or False: Relapse thrives in isolation.
True.
A justification that involves feeling entitled to use.
“I deserve it.” (Any example that is similar)
Reality check for: “I can handle it now.”
What does this mean?
Past experience shows loss of control.
Keeping thoughts to yourself increases this risk.
Relapse.
Who is one person you can reality-check thoughts with?
Sponsor, therapist, group member, family member.
Hearing others share similar thoughts does what to shame?
Reduces it.
A justification that compares one’s use to others.
“I’m not as bad as them.” (Any example that is similar)
Reality-based response to: “This doesn’t count.”
What does this mean?
Secrecy is a warning sign.
Romanticizing past use is a sign of which relapse phase?
Mental relapse.
A skill that helps slow emotional thinking.
Breathing / grounding.
What does accountability mean in recovery?
Letting others know what’s really going on.
A justification that relies on rules or limits.
“Only on weekends / only one.” (Any example that is similar)
What usually happens after believing “just one time”?
Cravings increase / relapse risk rises.
What phase of relapse usually comes before physical use?
Mental / emotional relapse.
Why talking about justifications early is helpful.
Reduces shame and relapse risk.
Why is group honesty considered a protective factor?
It increases support and reality-checking.
A justification that often involves secrecy.
“No one will know.” (Any example that is similar)
Why is reality-checking thinking a relapse prevention skill?
It interrupts the relapse process early.
Name two warning signs that justification thinking is increasing.
Isolation, minimization, secrecy, overconfidence.
Name one action that interrupts relapse justification immediately.
Call someone, attend a meeting, write out consequences.
“Name two relapse justification you will challenge this week and two realities you’ll use instead.”
Must have two relapse justification thoughts and two reality checks.