Substance Use Basics
What does “tolerance” mean when talking about substance use?
When a person needs more of a substance to get the same effect
What does the acronym HALT stand for
Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired
What is a relapse trigger?
A person, place, thing, or feeling that can lead to substance use
What neurotransmitter is most associated with the brain’s reward system?
Dopamine.
Which singer and actress rose to fame on Disney Channel and has been vocal about her recovery from addiction?
Selena Gomez.
What are synthetic cannabinoids often called?
Spice or K2
Name one benefit of having a sober support network.
Accountability, encouragement, and reduced relapse risk
Explain the difference between a trigger and a craving.
Trigger = cue that prompts thoughts of using; craving = intense desire to use.
How do substances hijack the brain’s reward circuitry?
By flooding it with dopamine or mimicking neurotransmitters, reinforcing drug-seeking behavior.
Which Oscar-winning actress went to rehab in the early 2000s and has since maintained sobriety?
Lindsay Lohan.
Name one stimulant and one depressant.
Meth, Cocaine. Depressant: Alcohol, Benzodiazepines.
What does SMART Goals stand for
Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound
Why can success in recovery sometimes increase relapse risk?
Overconfidence may cause lowering of guard and reduced coping strategies.
What role does the amygdala play in addiction?
It processes fear and stress, contributing to cravings and relapse during stressful times.
Which legendary rock guitarist of Guns N’ Roses battled addiction and has been sober since the early 2000s?
Slash.
Name two common opioids derived from the opium poppy.
Morphine and codeine.
What is the “90 in 90” concept in recovery support groups?
Attending 90 meetings in 90 days to build a strong foundation and reduce relapse risk.
What is a relapse prevention plan?
A written set of strategies to handle triggers, cravings, and high-risk situations.
Which part of the brain is responsible for emotions like fear and stress?
The amygdala.
Which singer of the band Maroon 5 has talked about overcoming alcoholism?
Adam Levine.
What is “sudden sniffing death syndrome”?
A fatal cardiac arrest triggered by inhaling solvents or aerosols.
What is the “HALT” method and why is it used?
Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired — warning signs that can increase relapse risk.
Why is “emotional relapse” dangerous even without substance use?
Emotional relapse includes unhealthy thinking, isolation, and skipping recovery activities — early steps toward using again.
Why is the brain able to “rewire” itself during recovery?
Because of neuroplasticity, which allows the brain to heal and form new connections.
Which Eminem song details his struggle and commitment to recovery?
“Not Afraid.”