Triggers and Warning Signs
What is a “trigger” in relapse prevention?
Answer: A person, place, thing, or emotion that increases the urge to use substances.
What is a coping skill?
Answer: A healthy action or thought used to manage stress, emotions, or cravings.
Why are support systems important in recovery?
Answer: They provide encouragement, accountability, and help during challenging times.
Why is having a daily routine important in recovery?
Answer: It creates structure and reduces idle time that can lead to cravings.
What does “I can handle just one” thinking mean?
Answer: Believing you can use once without losing control—an early sign of relapse thinking.
Name one common emotional trigger that can lead to relapse.
Answer: Stress, anger, loneliness, boredom, or sadness.
Name one healthy coping strategy for cravings.
Answer: Deep breathing, grounding exercises, talking to a support person, or distraction activities.
Name one type of support a person can have in recovery.
Answer: A sponsor, peer support specialist, counselor, friend, or recovery group.
Name one healthy habit that supports recovery.
Answer: Regular sleep, balanced nutrition, exercise, or attending support meetings.
What is overconfidence in recovery?
Answer: Thinking you’re “cured” or no longer need meetings or support.
What does “relapse in disguise” mean?
Answer: When relapse begins through subtle behaviors or thoughts before actual substance use.
How can mindfulness help in recovery?
Answer: It increases awareness of thoughts and emotions, helping prevent impulsive decisions.
How can talking to others about cravings help prevent relapse?
Answer: It reduces isolation and allows others to offer perspective or guidance before relapse occurs.
DAILY DOUBLE!!!
How does self-care help prevent relapse?
Answer: It improves emotional and physical well-being, reducing stress and triggers.
What is “romanticizing the past”?
Answer: Remembering substance use as fun or positive while forgetting the negative consequences.
Give one example of a behavioral warning sign of relapse
Answer: Withdrawing from support, skipping meetings, neglecting self-care, or isolating.
What is one physical coping skill that can reduce stress or triggers?
Answer: Exercising, going for a walk, stretching, or using relaxation techniques.
What is the role of a peer support specialist in relapse prevention?
Answer: To share lived experience, provide understanding, and motivate others to stay on track.
Why is goal-setting important in recovery?
Answer: It gives purpose, direction, and motivation to stay committed to sobriety.
DAILY DOUBLE!!!
What is self-censorship in group settings, and why is it risky?
Answer: Holding back honest thoughts to fit in; it prevents openness and leads to hidden struggles.
What is the importance of recognizing early warning signs?
Answer: Identifying them early helps prevent a full relapse and allows for timely support or intervention.
Why is it important to have multiple coping strategies?
Answer: Because different situations require different responses—having options increases success in maintaining sobriety.
What can happen if someone starts avoiding meetings or check-ins?
Answer: Isolation increases, and they become more vulnerable to triggers or relapse.
How can volunteering or helping others support recovery?
Answer: It builds self-worth, strengthens community connections, and reinforces accountability.
How does gratitude help challenge negative thinking in recovery?
Focusing on what’s going well replaces destructive thoughts and helps maintain motivation and positivity.