TRIGGERS & CRAVINGS
What’s the difference between an internal trigger and an external trigger?
Internal = thoughts, feelings, physical states. External = people, places, things, situations.
Name one short-term effect of stimulant use.
Increased energy, focus, heart rate, anxiety, paranoia.
Which part of the brain controls decision-making and impulse control?
The prefrontal cortex
Name one healthy coping skill.
Walking, breathing, music, calling support, journaling.
What is the purpose of refusal skills?
To protect recovery and reduce trigger exposure.
Name one emotion that commonly increases cravings.
Stress, anger, boredom, sadness, anxiety, loneliness.
Name one short-term effect of depressants.
Relaxation, slowed thinking, poor coordination, drowsiness.
What does the brain’s reward system do?
Reinforces behaviors the brain thinks are important.
Name one unhealthy coping skill that feels helpful short-term
Avoidance, isolation, numbing with substances.
Give one example of a refusal statement.
“No thanks.” / “I’m not doing that anymore.” / “I’ve got plans.”
What does HALT stand for and why does it matter?
Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired — these states increase relapse risk.
What happens to the brain’s dopamine system with repeated use?
It becomes less responsive, making pleasure harder to feel naturally.
Why does stress increase relapse risk?
It weakens decision-making and activates habit pathways.
Why does avoidance usually backfire?
It strengthens the trigger-use cycle.
Why is over-explaining risky?
It invites pressure and manipulation.
Name one early warning sign that a craving is building.
Thinking about using, romanticizing use, irritability, restlessness, isolating.
How can substance use affect sleep long-term?
Poor sleep quality, insomnia, daytime fatigue.
What’s the difference between a craving and a choice?
A craving is a brain signal; a choice is how you respond.
What’s one coping skill that works even with low motivation?
Deep breathing, grounding, hydration, short movement.
Name one boundary needed early in recovery.
Avoiding certain people, changing routines, limiting money access.
True or False: Cravings usually peak and fall within 20–30 minutes if not acted on.
True.
Why do substances often increase anxiety over time?
They disrupt brain chemistry and raise baseline anxiety.
Why is relapse often considered part of recovery?
Addiction is a chronic brain condition, not a moral failure.
What makes a coping skill effective long-term?
Consistency, accessibility, and emotional match.
Someone offers you your substance of choice. What’s the best response?
Clear refusal, leave the situation, contact support.