Stigma
What is stigma?
A negative attitude or belief that leads people to reject or judge others.
What is a trigger?
Anything that causes thoughts, feelings, or urges to use.
What are coping skills?
Tools or strategies to deal with stress and difficult emotions.
What does “high-risk situation” mean?
A situation where the chance of relapse is higher.
What is one type of recovery support group?
AA, NA, SMART Recovery, Celebrate Recovery, Refuge Recovery, etc.
True or False: Stigma only affects people who actively use substances.
False. It affects people in recovery too.
Name one internal trigger and one external trigger.
Internal: stress, anger, loneliness. External: people, places, things.
Name one healthy coping skill for stress.
Exercise, journaling, prayer, talking to a friend, etc.
Name one example of a high-risk situation.
Being around people who use, emotional stress, being alone, etc.
True or False: Asking for help is a sign of weakness.
False — it’s a sign of strength and self-awareness.
What’s one way we can fight stigma?
Education, using person-first language, or sharing recovery stories.
What is one healthy way to manage cravings?
Deep breathing, distraction, calling support, mindfulness, etc.
Why is it important to have multiple coping skills?
Different situations need different strategies; not every skill works every time.
What’s the best way to prepare for a high-risk situation?
Have a plan and coping skills ready ahead of time.
What’s one benefit of having a sponsor or mentor in recovery?
Accountability, guidance, emotional support, or shared experience.
Complete the quote: “It’s not bad people getting better, it’s ____.”
“Good people getting well.”
What’s the difference between a trigger and a craving?
A trigger causes the craving; a craving is the urge to use.
What’s a coping skill that helps manage negative thoughts?
Cognitive reframing, affirmations, or grounding techniques.
What does HALT stand for and why is it important?
Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired — these states increase relapse risk.
Name two tools that can help you stay on track in recovery.
Journaling, therapy, recovery meetings, phone support, meditation apps, etc.
Why is reducing stigma important in relapse prevention?
Because stigma can cause shame and isolation, which increases the risk of relapse.
True or False: Cravings only last a few minutes.
True — most cravings peak and fade within 20–30 minutes.
What is one relapse prevention coping skill for social events?
Bring a sober friend, have an exit plan, or stay in safe environments.
What’s one strategy for handling a high-risk situation you can’t avoid?
Use coping skills, reach out for support, or leave if unsafe.
How can building a recovery network help prevent relapse?
It provides encouragement, connection, accountability, and reduces isolation.