Statistics
What percentage of addicts relapse in the first year of recovery?
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse 47%.
Give 3 examples of coping skills and describe a time when you would use each.
Multiple Correct Answers
Emotions are fluid and temporary.
True
What does HALT stand for and why it is an important recovery concept?
Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired- during extreme situations and feelings we are much more likely to relapse.
Define Relapse
Relapse is a process that ends in use. It is defined in PR as a return to use or acting out ONLY after a period of sobriety.
Within what timeframe post treatment do most relapses occur?
The first 90 days.
List 3 components that should be included in your aftercare/discharge plan
IOP, PHP, individual therapy, family therapy, psychiatrist, 12 step meetings and sponsorship, TRS alumni, sober living
It is ok to drink alcohol in recovery if it wasn't your drug of choice.
False
Define a relapse trigger and list 3.
An emotional, environmental, or physical cue that results in craving for use.
Describe 3 benefits of attending 12 step meetings.
Fellowship, guidance, sober support, accountability, safe place, encouragement, working the 12 steps, fun sober activities, learning and gaining from others
People are more, less, or equally likely to relapse from drug addiction than other chronic illnesses.
Equally- hypertension, asthma, and diabetes all have similar relapse rates
What is grounding? Give an example of when you should use it and an example of when you should not.
A set of simple strategies to detach from emotional and physical pain. Distraction works by focusing outward on the external world, rather than inward toward self; anchors you to the present and reality
You are more likely to fatally overdose on opiates if you were to relapse after a period of sobriety than you are prior to receiving treatment.
True
Define a Relapse Warning Sign/Red Flag and give at least 2 examples.
Going back to old thinking patterns and behaviors that were present when you were active in your addiction. This precedes actual use.
What should you do if you relapse?
Reach out to a support member, go to a meeting, get back on track as soon as possible.
If you view your lapse as a mistake and as a product of external triggers, rather than as a personal failure, research shows that you will have a much better chance of return to abstinence quickly.
Approximately how many people overdosed and died in the United States in 2017?
a) 50,525 b) 72,000 c) 125,000 d) 153,600
More than 72,000 drug overdose deaths estimated in 2017 according to the National Institute on Drug Addiction
Why is it important for other people to be part of your recovery, and in what ways can they help?
You cannot do it alone. Accountability is crucial early in recovery. Other perspective, etc. Multiple correct answers.
If your doctor prescribes you benzodiazepines, opiates, or amphetamines when you are in recovery it is appropriate to take them because they are a doctor and you must follow doctor's orders.
False. In some extreme circumstances opiates are necessary under the strict supervision of your doctor, support system, and with the support of your sponsor. However, in most cases these are not appropriate to take. Benzos impact the risk aversion part of your brain function. All addictive substances will impact the reward center of your brain, and will likely reactivate the obsession.
What does PAWS stand for? Also give 3 examples.
Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome- anxiety, irritability, sleep disturbances, memory disturbances, trouble concentrating, mood swings, impulsivity and decreased risk avoidance, return of some acute symptoms, increased craving, trouble managing emotions, decrease in motivation and pleasure
What is Kratom?
Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, with leaves that can have psychotropic effects. Sold over the counter. It is addictive, and there have been 2 deaths associated directly with Kratom alone, but there were 11 deaths between 2011 and 2017 which involved kratom and other substances. Withdrawal symptoms include muscle aches, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggression, emotional changes, runny nose, and jerky movements. There is no scientific evidence that kratom is effective or safe for reducing withdrawal symptoms or cravings for other substances.
What is Narcan/Naloxone and how do you get it?
NALOXONE is a narcotic blocker. It is used to treat narcotic drug overdose. It is used to temporarily reverse the effects of opioid medicines.
What does it mean to play the tape through?
When temporally removed from the consequences your addiction will selectively leave out the second half of the fantasy. It will remind you of all of the positive aspects of using. When sober consider what would happen if you were to relapse again. Write it down and keep it with you.
You can overdose on synthetic drugs like K2 or spice, bath salts, etc.
True- These are no less harmful than other drugs and in most cases are more potent and dangerous, as well as unpredictable.
What is dopamine and how is it related to addiction?
A neurochemical that regulates movement and emotions. Drugs affect the release of dopamine by releasing larger than natural amounts providing an intense feeling of pleasure.
Describe the concept of Unnecessary risk and give 2 examples.
Placing yourself in high risk situations that are avoidable. A wedding where there is alcohol, a family function where people are using, a negative relationship that is a trigger, etc.