Stages of Relapse
True or false: Drinking or using is the first step of relapse.
Reframing triggers is a way to deal with them appropriately. True or false.
True! Reframing triggers means changing how you interpret and respond to situations that tend to set you off emotionally, so you can avoid impulsive reactions and act in alignment with your values.
"Playing the tape" is a way to prevent relapse by thinking about the consequences of use. What is YOUR experience that makes you stop?
Legal, medical, relational, financial consequences
Letting your primary care doctor know that you have an addiction history can be a helpful support. Why?
They will be better informed about what class of drugs should NOT be prescribed to you.
P.S. Your dentist should know too!
Who lives in Jamestown and enjoys helping others?
Patty....and BOB
What are two warning signs of an emotional relapse?
Anxiety, anger, isolation, stop going to treatment
Triggers can be internal or external. Provide one of each.
Internal: sadness, anger, fear, anxiety, pain
External: bars, paraphernalia, bottles of alcohol or prescription bottles, liquor stores, Other people drinking/using
This strategy asks that you "ride out" the urge.
Urge surfing
How can this group offer support for you?
Positive feedback, relatability, common goal, consistent attendance.
Who are the newest members of group?
Karen and Bill
A mental relapse can result in thinking that brings you close to high-risk situations. What is a common thought that you might have in this stage?
"I can have one or two."
"I have been clean for a while. No one would know."
Lack of engagement in meaningful activities can lead to_________, which might trigger substance use as a way to pass the time or feel stimulated.
Boredom
True or false: Cravings usually last an hour
False: urges typically last about 30 minutes
What 2 other sober supports are available outside this meeting?
NA/AA, SMART recovery, recovery coach, online meetings, family and friends
What TWO group member are connected with Vermont?
Katherine and Oliver
The correct order of stage is:
A: Mental, emotional, physical
B. Emotional, mental, physical
C. Physical, emotional, mental
B. Emotional, mental, physical
Addiction is a chronic condition, and treatment may need to be periodically adjusted. TRUE or FALSE
TRUE
What coping strategy asks that you be aware of yourself?
MINDFULNESS
Random toxicology screens are available to provide additional support in the form of accountability.
How else are you accountable in your recovery?
attendance at meetings, breathalyzers, follow up with individual therapy
What group members BOTH played the drums?
Oliver and Woody
Physical relapse happens when you actually drink or use. What is the best way to work through this?
Get honest and seek support.
Some people are triggered by good times and others by challenging times. Can you provide an example of each?
Good- new job, milestones, birthdays, holidays, summertime, days that end in "y"
Challenging times: job loss, medical issues, break-ups, death of a loved one, days that end in "y"
When going to a summer cookout where you know there will be drinks/drugs, what are TWO proactive ways to plan ahead?
Take your own car, bring a sober friend, bring your own beverage, limit your time there
Not everyone will support your recovery and they may not understand. How can you limit your time with or exposure to them?
BOUNDARIES!
Who has over 300 days sober?
Paul