Work & Recovery
You cannot work while you are in recovery? (True or False)
False- there are facilities that do allow workers who are currently in recovery. It is difficult to work for places that make large sums of cash, or at a bar, but when you apply at places be open and honest about your schedule.
Which category does this statement fall under? " I am hopeless and worthless"
What is shame- You feel bad about who you are.
What is Relapse?
Relapse is going back to the substance and to all the behaviors and patterns that go with that.
Engaging in this activity involves using paper and a writing utensil to describe and reflect on your feelings or thoughts. This coping skill is called ___________.
journaling
True or false: It is recommended to share your relapse prevention plan with your support system
True- Having your support system know about your plan will help you stay accountable and keep you on the right track
What can you do if you are unemployed? Blocks of downtime can be triggering.
First find meaning and purpose- even if that's just cleaning the house. You can always volunteer, go to meetings, start a hobby.
What are the two primary things that make recovery work?
1)Being Smart 2) Working hard
What happens before you relapse? How can you know you starting to relapse?
Your behaviors and patterns return. Name some of your using behaviors/ patterns from the past?
Identify one unhealthy coping skill
1. Using a substance to numb out emotions, thoughts, memories, etc.
2. Engaging in an activity in excess, such as shopping beyond what your budget allows or eating until you are physically ill
3. Venting to an untrustworthy individual
Describe what you will need to do in recovery to be successful
(Your answer is correct, because you are here and we are super proud of you)
Why is working/ staying busy important during recovery?
You have so much free time and it can make it difficult to fill the free time and provide structure. You need structure during recovery.
What is guilt?
Feeling bad about what you have done.
Feeling that don't seem to go away and just keep getting stronger cause what?
what is emotional buildup- examples- boredom, anxiety, frustration, irritability, anger, built, and depression.
Identify two healthy coping skills to help manage triggers, cravings, and stress
Journaling, meditation, spiritual practices, physical exercise, listening to music, listen to TedTalks or inspirational speeches, etc.
True or false: If you consider yourself in the green area of relapse, described as healthy and ongoing, then you do not have to continue to engage in recovery.
False. Recovery is a muscle we must continue to practice in order to be prepared for times of stress or when our recovery is being challenged.
What does mental health look like when your recovery is being challenge?
May be experiencing unpleasant emotions that vary with intensity, such as feeling overwhelmed, lonely, stressed, nervous, bored, etc.
May be having negative or intrusive thoughts about yourself and recovery, such as thinking you cannot be successful in recovery or that you aren't strong enough.
Explain the last time you felt guilty.
(Client's response) UNDERSTAND feeling guilty is a healthy reaction. What's important is you make peace with yourself.
Thoughts that make using or drinking seem okay are called what?
Stinking thinking- thoughts that trick your brain into believing alcohol or other drug use is okay. (ex) "I can handle just one drink."
TRUE OR FALSE
You need a lot of free time before starting healthy coping skills
FALSE !!
The best coping skills are one one's that can be used daily.
What can you do to prevent a physical relapse?
1. Share your relapse prevention plan with your support network
2. Continue to attend scheduled appointments and meetings
3. Stay away from risky situations or environments
4. Remind yourself of the reality of using instead of focusing on only the positive memories (ex: play the tape forward)
5. Ask for help when you notice signs of a relapse
What do you do to manage triggers and cravings at work or at home?
Clients response
Even though you go through shame and guilt- recovery is the easiest thing you will ever do. (True or False)
False- Recovery is HARD. No one can do it for you, and it will not just happen. You have to be willing to put in the work daily, but I can promise you will be the best thing you ever do for yourself.
What should you do if you recognize the danger signs or relapsing?
Call your therapist, call a sober friend, start exercising, have sober fun, talk to your partner or other supportive sober family member, use time scheduling.
Describe one coping skill and how you have used it this past week? Act it out if you want!
(Client's response)
What are some signs of emotional wellness during times of ongoing recovery?
1. Ability and comfort to discuss emotions with others you trust
2. Comfortable with experiencing unpleasant and pleasant emotions
3. Engage in self-care practices that promote emotional wellness, such as attending counseling, journaling, meditating, etc.