Triggers
Coping Skills
Support System
Warning Signs
Self-Care and Motivation
100

What is a trigger?

A trigger is something that causes cravings or reminds someone of past substance use or unhealthy behavior.

100

What’s a coping skill?

A healthy strategy used to manage stress, emotions, or cravings.

100

Who is part of your support system?

Family, friends, sponsors, therapists, counselors, or peers in recovery.

100

What’s an early warning sign of relapse?

Withdrawing from others, skipping meetings, poor self-care, or thinking about using.

100

What is self-care?

Taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

200

Name one emotional trigger.

Examples: anger, sadness, boredom, loneliness, stress, or guilt.

200

Name a healthy coping skill you can use when you feel stressed.

Deep breathing, journaling, talking to someone, listening to music, or going for a walk.

200

 Why is it important to reach out for help?

Because staying connected prevents isolation and provides encouragement during difficult times.

200

Name a behavior that shows you might be struggling.

Lying, isolating, losing motivation, or hanging around old using friends.

200

Give one example of physical self-care.

Eating healthy, exercising, sleeping well, or showering daily.

300

Why is identifying triggers important?

Because recognizing them helps you avoid or manage situations that could lead to relapse.

300

What’s one grounding technique you can use to stay present?

The “5-4-3-2-1” technique: name 5 things you see, 4 things you feel, 3 things you hear, 2 things you smell, 1 thing you taste.

300

Name one way to build stronger support connections.

Attend meetings, be honest with others, reach out regularly, or volunteer.

300

What’s the difference between a lapse and a relapse?

A lapse is a one-time slip; a relapse is a return to old patterns or ongoing use.

300

What’s something you can do daily to stay motivated in recovery?

Practice gratitude, set small goals, use affirmations, or connect with positive people.

400

What’s one way to avoid a known trigger?

Avoid certain people or places, use coping skills, plan ahead, or reach out for support.

400

How can art, journaling, or music help with coping?

They allow emotional expression, reduce stress, and improve mood.

400

How can peers in recovery support your progress?

They understand your struggles, offer advice, and hold you accountable.

400

How can journaling help you recognize warning signs?

It helps track moods, patterns, and situations that lead to cravings.

400

How can setting goals help prevent relapse?

Goals give direction, purpose, and focus—keeping you motivated and accountable.

500

Describe a situation that could become a trigger and how you would handle it.

Going to a party where people are drinking. Plan to bring a sober friend, leave early, or skip the event entirely.

500

Create a short coping plan for a stressful situation.

Example: “When I feel overwhelmed, I’ll pause to breathe, journal my feelings, call my sponsor or friend, and distract myself with a hobby.”

500

Describe how you can ask for help when you feel triggered.

“I’m struggling right now and could use someone to talk to,” or text/call a trusted person before acting on urges.

500

What could you do if you start noticing old patterns returning?

Talk to a counselor, attend a meeting, use coping skills, and make a new plan.

500

Share one affirmation or quote that helps you stay positive.

“One day at a time,” “I am stronger than my urges,” or “Recovery is worth it.”

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