Opioid Statistics
What type of opioid is involved in the majority of overdose deaths in the U.S. today?
Fentanyl
Methamphetamine primarily affects which neurotransmitter linked to motivation and reward?
dopamine
Substances like opioids may reduce emotional pain, leading people to underestimate what?
the actual danger or consequences of their use
When a family member changes routines or behaviors to avoid conflict with someone using substances, this is called what?
walking on eggshells
A friend asks you to “hold” their substances for them. What is a safe boundary-based response?
“I care about you, but I can’t do that.”
Opioid overdoses most often occur during which activities: using alone, using in groups, or in public?
using alone
True or false: Methamphetamine overdose deaths have been rising over the last decade.
true
Meth can create a sense of hyperfocus or confidence. What common daily task do people often overestimate their ability to do safely?
driving
Children in homes affected by substance use often take on adult responsibilities. What is this role called?
“parentification”
You’re invited somewhere where substances will be present, and you’re early in recovery. What’s the recommended harm-reduction step?
having an exit plan or bringing a sober support
True or false: The majority of people who develop opioid use disorder started with a legally prescribed pain medication.
true
People using meth often experience long periods without sleep. What is this commonly called?
a “run” or “binge”
This term refers to believing “I’m fine — I can control it,” despite mounting consequences.
denial
This cycle occurs when a family tries to help, but unintentionally supports the substance use.
enabling
You know someone is high and demanding a ride. What is the safest choice?
refusing to drive them or get in the car with them - call an uber, find a sober friend
This medication can reverse an opioid overdose if given in time.
naloxone (Narcan)
Meth use significantly increases the risk of what type of heart-related medical emergency?
heart attack or stroke
Altered perception often makes people think they can read others' intentions more accurately, leading to paranoia. What is this distorted thinking type called?
hypervigilance or paranoid interpretation
Family members often blame themselves for the substance use of their loved one. What therapeutic message counters this?
“You did not cause it, you cannot control it, and you cannot cure it.”
A coworker confronts you about rumors of past substance use. What’s a healthy boundary?
“My history is personal. I’m focusing on my health and don’t want to discuss it.”
The presence of this contaminant or counterfeit pill ingredient has dramatically increased overdose risk in recent years.
fentanyl in non-opioid substances (like pressed pills, cocaine, or meth)?
When meth and opioids are used together, overdose risk becomes extremely high. What is this combo called?
“goofballing”?
This brain network becomes more active in substance use, increasing rumination, impulsive decisions, and emotional intensity.
Default Mode Network (DMN)
This family system pattern occurs when conflict between caregivers increases due to the stress of a member's use.
triangulation or relational strain
You’re at a family event and a relative pressures you to drink or use. What is an assertive refusal skill?
“No thanks, I’m not doing that. Please stop asking.”